Rubio Confirms US-Iran Talks via Intermediaries Without Naming Parties

Middle East outlets highlight Iranian statements denying formal talks and insisting that key decisions, including over Hormuz, remain in Tehran’s hands. They stress that Iran says the strait is open to friendly countries but not to 'enemies', and that senior figures like parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf reject Trump’s claim of direct negotiations. From this angle, US talk of fractures and regime change is seen as wishful thinking rather than a settled reality.

• •Iran’s foreign ministry says no decision has been made on direct talks with the United States despite message exchanges.
• •Iranian officials state that the Strait of Hormuz is open to the 'world' but closed to 'enemies', implying selective access.
• •Parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf denies that he is negotiating with the United States and accuses Trump of promoting his desires as news.
• •Iranian leaders reject US claims of completed regime change and insist the Islamic Republic remains in control.
• •Iran presents its stance on Hormuz as a response to ongoing US military action and sanctions.