Iran rejects Trump’s claim of ‘productive talks’, says no contact with US

Iran on Monday rejected US President Donald Trump’s assertion that “productive” talks had taken place between the two countries, insisting that no direct or indirect contact had occurred and reaffirming its refusal to negotiate before achieving its war objectives.

In a statement cited by Iranian media, the Foreign Ministry said Tehran “rejects any type of negotiation” under current conditions, adding that Trump’s remarks marked a retreat from earlier threats but did not alter Iran’s position.

“Iran maintains its position rejecting any type of negotiation before achieving its war objectives,” the statement said, according to Sabereen news agency.

“Trump’s statement is a retreat from his earlier threats, but the Islamic Republic remains committed to its declared positions. Its position on the Strait of Hormuz has not changed and the passage will remain closed to aggressors attacking Iran.”

Iran’s Fars News Agency, quoting an unnamed source, reported that there had been no communication with Trump “not through an intermediary,” and claimed the US president had “backed down” after being warned that Iran would target power plants across the Gulf and Israel.

Meanwhile, Tasnim News Agency echoed the sentiment, declaring: “Trump backs down!”

Earlier, Trump said the United States and Iran had held “very good and productive” discussions over the past two days and announced a temporary pause on planned strikes as part of ongoing efforts to ease hostilities.

In a social media post, Trump said he had instructed authorities to delay “any and all” military action against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days, citing the “constructive” nature of the talks. He added that discussions would continue through the week and expressed optimism about a “complete and total resolution.”

However, he did not specify the format or location of the talks, and it remains unclear whether issues such as Iran’s nuclear programme, ballistic missiles or a broader ceasefire were discussed.

Tensions in the region remain high amid continued military exchanges and threats targeting key infrastructure.

Iran’s National Defence Council warned on Monday that any attack on its territory would lead to the mining of “all communication lines” in the Persian Gulf, effectively expanding disruption beyond the Strait of Hormuz.

“Any attempt by the enemy to attack Iranian coasts or islands will… cause all access routes and communication lines in the Persian Gulf to be mined,” the council said, adding that the entire Gulf could be rendered inaccessible, with responsibility lying with the attacking party.

The warning comes amid reports that the United States is considering options to occupy or blockade Kharg Island, a key hub for Iran’s oil exports, in a bid to pressure Tehran to reopen shipping routes, an escalation that could further intensify the conflict.

Iran has allowed vessels from China, India and Pakistan safe passage through the strait, while restricting access for others, contributing to disruptions in global energy markets.