Tensions between Tehran and Washington remain critically high as both nations exchange stark warnings despite ongoing negotiations. Following a fragile ceasefire, Iranian officials assert the US will not dictate the terms of war or peace while US President Donald Trump has threatened to resume military operations if current talks collapse.
During a press conference in Tehran on Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei accused the United States of repeatedly violating the Pakistan-brokered Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on June 17.
Baghaei stated that the US is now trapped in a "self-made quagmire" after a five-month conflict originally intended to force Iran's surrender. “We will not allow the US to determine the time of war and peace and we will defend ourselves for as long as necessary” he emphasized, prioritizing Iran’s national security and interests above all else.
The spokesperson sharply criticized neighboring Gulf nations, specifically Kuwait as well as the United Kingdom for allowing the US to utilize their military bases to launch strikes against Iranian targets. He warned that appeasing aggressors violates international law and compromises regional security.
Furthermore, Baghaei condemned a recent Ukrainian attack on an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea which resulted in Iranian casualties. He dismissed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's actions as dangerous "anarchist" theatrics and promised that the unprovoked violation of the UN Charter would not go unanswered.
Meanwhile in Washington, President Donald Trump claimed that heavy US military pressure successfully forced Tehran to the negotiating table.
“They want to meet, and we are meeting. There is a good chance we can make a deal” Trump told reporters. However, he delivered a blunt ultimatum: “If it doesn't [happen] then we go back to doing what we were doing two days ago.”
Trump also addressed recent claims by President Zelenskyy that Russia had shared satellite intelligence with Iran stating he would seek immediate clarification from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Additionally ahead of a scheduled meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump noted the two allies remain "pretty close" regarding Iran despite minor differences.
Background of the Conflict:
February 28: The US and Israel initiated military actions against Iran. April 8: A temporary ceasefire was accepted following Iranian retaliatory operations. June 17: Tehran and Washington signed an MoU to end hostilities.
Recent reciprocal strikes have occurred and the strategic Strait of Hormuz remains closed though Iran reports positive management talks with Oman.
