Washington: US President Donald Trump has claimed that discussions with Iran are underway and described the current moment as Tehran’s “last opportunity” to reach an agreement, warning that the alternative would be “total surrender.” However, Iran has categorically denied that any negotiations with Washington are taking place, highlighting the deep divide between the two countries.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said the United States was engaged in talks at the request of Iran and several Middle Eastern nations, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. He maintained that a diplomatic settlement remained possible but stressed that Iran must move quickly if it wanted to avoid further confrontation.
Iran Rejects Trump’s Assertion
Iran’s Foreign Ministry dismissed the US President’s remarks, stating that no direct or indirect negotiations with Washington are currently being held. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said there were no scheduled meetings with US officials, nor were there plans to send Iranian negotiators abroad in the coming days.
According to Iranian officials, the only ongoing diplomatic engagement involves discussions with Oman regarding issues related to the Strait of Hormuz. A senior Iranian source also indicated that Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is currently in Iraq on a religious pilgrimage and is unavailable for any negotiations.
Trump Accuses Iran of Mixed Signals
Later, Trump intensified his criticism in a social media post, accusing Iran’s leadership of sending contradictory messages. He alleged that Tehran had privately sought further dialogue while publicly denying any negotiations.
The US President also reiterated Washington’s stance on the Strait of Hormuz, claiming the US Navy maintains complete control over the strategic shipping route. He declared that Iran would ultimately have to choose between signing an agreement with the United States or facing what he described as “total surrender.”
Strait of Hormuz Remains Central Issue
The strategically important Strait of Hormuz continues to be one of the biggest sticking points in the ongoing dispute. The waterway carries a significant share of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas exports, making it a crucial route for global energy supplies.
While Washington has argued that previous understandings required Iran to ensure the unrestricted movement of commercial shipping, Tehran insists it retains authority over navigation in the area and rejects any interpretation that limits its control.
Diplomatic Uncertainty Continues
The conflicting statements from Washington and Tehran suggest that prospects for an immediate diplomatic breakthrough remain uncertain. Although President Trump recently claimed he had cancelled planned military strikes to create space for diplomacy, Iran continues to deny that any formal negotiations are taking place.
The latest developments come amid months of heightened tensions between the two countries, with both sides maintaining firm public positions even as regional and international stakeholders continue to push for a peaceful resolution.
