Iran Accuses US of Betraying Diplomacy Amid Rising Tensions

Middle Eastern outlets present Iran as willing to use diplomacy but blocked by US pressure, sanctions and military threats. They describe Washington’s ship seizure and threats against Iranian vessels as proof that the US is not serious about talks and is trying to force Iran to retreat on its nuclear and missile policies. They expect Iran to hold firm on sanctions relief and missile issues while using both diplomacy and military leverage to improve its position before any talks.

• •Iran’s foreign ministry accuses the United States of breaching previous commitments and enforcing a blockade that prevents genuine negotiations.
• •Iranian leaders insist they will not negotiate with the United States while US forces threaten Iranian ships and maintain control of the cargo vessel Touska.
• •Tehran maintains that its missile programme is non-negotiable and that nuclear gaps persist because Washington refuses to fully lift sanctions.
• •Iranian officials stress that diplomacy remains important but say deep distrust of the United States limits what talks can achieve.
• •Iranian sources say the country holds ‘new cards’ on the battlefield that can be used to strengthen its hand before any peace talks with Washington.