The Iranian Foreign Minister explained that there had been no direct communication between Tehran and Washington. President Donald Trump is threatening to restart the war with Iran if the Islamic Republic does not agree to a new nuclear agreement.
“There has been no contact between Witkoff and me in recent days, and we have not requested talks,” Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state media on Thursday. “Negotiations cannot work under threats, and talks must take place in conditions where threats and excessive demands are set aside.”
Trump has repeatedly threatened to attack Iran over rebuilding its nuclear facilities, developing a missile program, and killing Iranian protesters. On Wednesday, the President posted on Truth Social that he has deployed an “armada” to the Middle East, and will use it to attack Iran if Tehran does not agree to deal on its nuclear program.
“A massive Armada is heading to Iran. It is a larger fleet, headed by the great Aircraft Carrier Abraham Lincoln, than that sent to Venezuela. Like with Venezuela, it is ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfill its mission, with speed and violence, if necessary.”The post continued, “Hopefully Iran will quickly ‘Come to the Table’ and negotiate a fair and equitable deal – NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS – one that is good for all parties. Time is running out, it is truly of the essence!”
The Islamic Republic is not developing nuclear weapons and limits its nuclear program to civilian purposes. However, the Trump administration is demanding that Tehran also agree to strict limits on its missile program and the elimination of the nuclear enrichment program.
Iran says its missile and enrichment programs are key to its national defense and sovereignty.
Araghchi said there were some messages between Tehran and Washington that were relayed through third parties, without naming any countries.
On Wednesday, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said that Iran was willing to negotiate with the US, and it would be “wrong” for the US to restart the war.
Trump is considering a range of options to cause regime change in Iran, including an oil blockade and high-level strikes in Tehran. The President has ordered a significant US military buildup in the Middle East.
Araghchi reiterated that Iran will retaliate against any US aggression.
