Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Tehran will refuse 'forced negotiations' with the United States due to ongoing pressure and threats.
Iran's Stance on US Engagement
During a phone conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Pezeshkian indicated that current US actions are eroding trust, making dialogue difficult. He stressed that progress requires an end to what he termed "hostile actions and operational pressures" from Washington.
According to the Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, Pezeshkian demanded that the US first remove "operational obstacles, including the blockade" affecting ships traveling to and from Iranian ports to establish conditions for resolving disputes.
Pakistan's Commitment to Peace Efforts
In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured Pezeshkian that Pakistan remains committed to regional stability. A readout from the Pakistani Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Islamabad "would continue its sincere and honest endeavors to promote regional peace and security."
Sharif also publicly appreciated Iran's decision to dispatch a high-level delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, to Islamabad for discussions aimed at ending conflict.
Diplomatic Movements and Cancellations
- The Iranian delegation departed Islamabad on Saturday.
- They have since relocated to Muscat, Oman, to continue regional discussions.
- A planned visit by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner (son-in-law of Donald Trump) to Islamabad was canceled at the last minute by Trump.
