Iran says excessive US demands hurting talks

TEHRAN – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has told Antonio Guterres that what he described as excessive demands by the United States remain the main hurdle in the way of ongoing peace negotiations aimed at easing tensions in the region. The reports carried by Iranian media suggested that Araghchi conveyed Iran’s position during a telephone conversation with the UN Secretary-General, stressing that Washington’s previous policies had repeatedly damaged diplomatic efforts. He said the United States had undermined negotiations in the past through broken commitments, contradictory approaches, and military actions, creating distrust between the two sides. Despite these concerns, the Iranian foreign minister said Tehran was still participating seriously and responsibly in talks being facilitated through Pakistan’s mediation efforts. He added that Iran remained committed to diplomacy and believed that dialogue was the only effective path toward resolving regional disputes and ensuring lasting peace. The Iranian Foreign Ministry said Antonio Guterres, during the conversation, rejected the use of force against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of any country. The UN chief also emphasized the need for all parties to continue diplomatic engagement and avoid further escalation in the region. The latest diplomatic contacts come at a time when Pakistan is playing an active role in efforts to bridge differences between Tehran and Washington. In this regard, Syed Asim Munir has arrived in Tehran for high-level consultations with Iranian authorities. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he remained in regular contact with Field Marshal Asim Munir and expressed optimism that progress could be achieved through Pakistan’s mediation efforts. He also voiced hope that diplomatic engagement would eventually lead to an agreement between Iran and the United States.