Iran’s foreign minister said the country will not negotiate with the United States while President Trump threatens military strikes, ruling out any discussion of its ballistic missile program.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated Friday that Iran will not enter direct negotiations with the United States unless President Trump stops threatening military action. Speaking in Istanbul, Araghchi said talks must be based on a “fair and equitable” approach, not threats, and emphasized that “Iran’s missiles and defense systems will never be the subject of any negotiations.” Trump has threatened strikes against Iran to force concessions on its nuclear program, ballistic missiles, and support for regional militias.
Turkey has offered to mediate between the two nations, with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan saying, “We defend negotiations and diplomacy.” President Erdogan told Iranian President Pezeshkian that Turkey is ready to help “ease tensions and resolve issues” between Washington and Tehran. Regional countries fear American strikes could destabilize Iran and ignite a broader war. The tensions come as Iran grapples with aftermath of deadly antigovernment protests and economic struggles from Western sanctions and mismanagement.