Iran has ruled out a return to nuclear talks with the United States, citing what it calls “unreasonable demands.” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi confirmed on Wednesday that Tehran would not resume negotiations under current conditions. He said the US made excessive requests during past talks, which forced Iran to step away. Negotiations in New York and earlier indirect discussions were also suspended due to a lack of progress. Tensions have remained high since the June airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites by the US and Israel.
Araqchi emphasized that diplomacy remains Iran’s preferred path, but only if mutual respect is guaranteed. He said any future talks must be based on equal footing and shared interests. Araqchi warned that pressure and threats from the US had already failed in the past. Iran insists it will not respond to bullying or unfair expectations. Instead, it seeks peaceful solutions through respectful dialogue.
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Iranian officials say they tried to restart dialogue through mediators, but the US did not respond. A senior Iranian source said several messages had been sent to Washington recently, but no answers came back. Araqchi confirmed indirect contact with US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff through third parties. However, attempts to hold a meeting during the UN General Assembly were unsuccessful. Iran believes the US missed an opportunity to engage.
The US and its allies continue to accuse Iran of using its nuclear program to develop weapons. Iran denies the charge and says its program is peaceful and focused on energy needs. Western nations remain skeptical, pointing to Iran’s uranium enrichment as a concern. Meanwhile, international pressure is growing to prevent further escalation in the region. The stalled diplomacy adds uncertainty to global nuclear stability.
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Despite the deadlock, Iran claims it still supports peaceful negotiations under fair terms. Araqchi said Iran remains committed to diplomacy if approached with honesty and balance. For now, the standoff reflects deep mistrust and rising geopolitical tensions. Without meaningful talks, both sides risk further confrontation. Observers warn that a diplomatic breakthrough remains unlikely unless both parties shift their approach.