Iran Warns Against ‘Negotiations Under Threat’ as Uncertainty Looms Over Potential US Talks

Iran’s top negotiator and Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has accused US President Donald Trump of attempting to coerce Tehran into submission, warning that Iran is prepared to escalate if diplomacy proceeds “under the shadow of threats.”

In remarks posted on X, Ghalibaf said Washington was seeking to transform prospective negotiations into a platform for capitulation. “Trump, by imposing a siege and violating the ceasefire, seeks to turn this negotiating table, in his own imagination, into a table of surrender or to justify renewed warmongering,” he wrote.

He further asserted that Iran would not engage under pressure, adding that the country has spent the past two weeks preparing to “reveal new cards on the battlefield.” “Iranians do not submit to force,” he said.

Talks in Pakistan Remain Uncertain

The comments come amid uncertainty over possible US-Iran talks reportedly being considered in Pakistan, as a fragile two-week ceasefire nears its expiry. According to Reuters, Tehran is weighing participation, though no final decision has been taken.

A key obstacle to diplomacy remains the US blockade of Iranian ports, which Tehran views as a violation of the ceasefire framework. A Pakistani security source indicated that Field Marshal Asim Munir has conveyed these concerns to Washington, with Trump reportedly promising to review the measure.

Strategic Pressure Through the Strait of Hormuz

Iran has also leveraged its position over the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass. Shipping activity in the corridor has slowed significantly, with reports indicating only three vessel crossings within a 12-hour period—contributing to a roughly 5 per cent rise in global oil prices.

Maritime Incident Escalates Tensions

Tensions intensified further after US forces reportedly opened fire on an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel near Bandar Abbas following a standoff. The US military later released footage showing Marines boarding the vessel from helicopters.

Maritime security sources cited by Reuters suggested the ship may have been carrying “dual-use” materials with potential military applications. Iran condemned the interception as “armed piracy,” warning it was prepared to respond but exercised restraint due to the presence of civilians on board.

Ceasefire Under Strain

The developments come as the two-week ceasefire, announced by Trump on April 7, approaches its deadline. The truce—credited with temporarily halting a conflict that has claimed thousands of lives and disrupted global markets—is set to expire this week.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi warned that continued US violations pose a serious obstacle to diplomacy. He conveyed Tehran’s position during a phone call with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, noting that Iran has yet to determine its next course of action.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also criticised Washington, stating that “unconstructive and contradictory signals from American officials carry a bitter message” and reflect efforts to force Iran’s surrender.

Diplomatic Uncertainty Persists

Despite ongoing diplomatic activity, uncertainty remains over whether talks will materialise. Reports suggesting US Vice President JD Vance might travel to Pakistan have been contradicted, with officials confirming he remains in the United States.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has heightened security preparations, deploying nearly 20,000 personnel across Islamabad in anticipation of a potential meeting.

As tensions persist, the evolving standoff continues to weigh on regional stability and global markets, with both sides navigating a delicate balance between diplomatic engagement and the risk of renewed escalation.