Iran denies plans for US talks during UN General Assembly

President Donald Trump anticipates resuming negotiations with Iran this week, despite rejecting Tehran's proposal for a seven-day ceasefire process to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The US negotiators are expected to engage Iran again as Qatari mediators continue efforts to bridge gaps between Washington and Tehran. The president acknowledged Iran's desire for an agreement, but stated that Iran's terms were not acceptable to him.

He left military action on the table, expressing that he is "always thinking about it". Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi maintained that Tehran remains committed to its conditions and will not accept the US proposal. He emphasized that negotiations should commence on mutually agreed subjects once the immediate package is accepted.

Tehran has demanded the lifting of the US naval blockade, relief from sanctions affecting its oil sales, and implementation of earlier ceasefire provisions, including access to frozen assets. Trump publicly dismissed the proposal, arguing that Iran was seeking major concessions before starting broader negotiations, particularly regarding its nuclear program.

US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz also criticized Tehran's stance, expressing doubts about its willingness to negotiate in good faith on ending its nuclear program. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian indicated readiness to discuss its nuclear program and other issues but ruled out accepting coercion. He stressed that Iran does not seek war and remains committed to not developing nuclear weapons.

The conflicting positions have left Qatar in the position of facilitating indirect diplomacy between the two sides. Qatari officials have been relaying messages between Iran and the US, with further separate contacts expected between Araghchi and US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The Strait of Hormuz remains the most pressing issue, as restrictions on shipping have severely affected a route that once carried a fifth of global oil demand.

The US has imposed an economic and naval blockade on Iran, claiming that it is intended to pressure Tehran to halt attacks on vessels. The US has stated that 22 million barrels were exported through the strait on Friday night, while Iran maintains that access to the waterway is essential for trade. Iran's army commander Amir Hatami warned that the country would not accept a situation where its ability to trade is restricted while others continue using regional waterways.

Araghchi reiterated that Iran has not ruled out diplomacy, even in the face of Trump's public rejection. He also stated that Iran is prepared for renewed fighting if attacked, underscoring the tension surrounding mediation while insisting on Iran's rights.