Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday stressed the need for de-escalation through dialogue, asserting that “war benefits no one” and that “every rational and diplomatic route should be used to reduce tensions,” even as Tehran maintains a firm stance against external threats.
Speaking during a visit to the Ministry of Justice, Pezeshkian underlined the importance of transparency in governance, saying the public “must be kept informed of the country’s realities.”
He cautioned that inaccurate information and unrealistic promises erode trust, adding that both achievements and challenges should be communicated honestly.
The remarks come amid heightened uncertainty over the second round of diplomatic engagement in Pakistan as Iran’s Foreign Ministry indicated that Tehran has “no plans” to attend the next round of talks, reflecting deep scepticism over Washington’s intentions.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said Iran is “not optimistic” but remains “realistic” in its approach to the United States, citing past instances where agreements were not upheld. He described Washington’s position as inconsistent, warning that any repetition of “past mistakes” would invite a decisive response.
Baghaei also criticised continued US pressure measures, including maritime restrictions, which Tehran views as incompatible with de-escalation efforts.
He reiterated that Iran would not participate in fresh talks without a clear framework and reaffirmed that key issues such as uranium enrichment and defence capabilities remain non-negotiable.
He also referred to a recent American attack on an Iranian vessel that was faced with a decisive response on the part of the Islamic Republic, forcing US troops in the Sea of Oman to retreat. The spokesman identified the attack as “a violation of maritime agreements and an act of aggression.”
The United States has carried out a flagrant act of aggression on an Iranian merchant vessel in the waters of the Sea of Oman.
The official additionally pointed out continuation of the Israeli regime’s violations against Lebanon, despite the Islamic Republic’s insistence on cessation of aggression on all fronts as an indivisible part of any ceasefire.
Referring to the Israeli regime’s rehashing its claim of acting in “self-defense” to try to justify its violations, Baghaei said, “This is another example where the other side shifts the blame and conceals its own shortcomings.”
Concerning the likelihood of further talks with the American side, the official said no decision had been made yet regarding the next round.
Iran, he added, could not forget the costly experience of Washington’s previous breaches of its promises.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said he would be willing to meet senior Iranian leaders if a breakthrough is achieved in talks, the New York Post reported on Monday.
“We’re supposed to have the talks,” Trump said, adding he believes “nobody’s playing games” at this stage.
A US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance is expected to arrive in Islamabad within hours for the negotiations, the report said.
Meanwhile, in Islamabad, Pakistan signalled readiness to facilitate dialogue. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said “foolproof security” arrangements are in place for a potential new round of talks, following his meeting with Iran’s ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam.
Naqvi emphasised that a negotiated settlement between the United States and Iran is essential for regional stability, while the Iranian envoy acknowledged Pakistan’s “constructive role” in efforts to ease tensions.
However, with Tehran yet to confirm participation and trust deficits persisting, prospects for immediate diplomatic progress remain uncertain.
