Iran Accuses US of Sabotaging Negotiations with 'Excessive Demands'; Warns of 'Crushing' Response if Trump 'Restarts the War'

Iran has accused the United States of sabotaging peace negotiations with "excessive demands," issuing a stern warning of a "crushing" response should President Donald Trump "restart the war." This accusation comes amid heightened speculation about a potential resumption of hostilities.

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There is a possibility that, either later today, tomorrow, or within a couple of days, we will have something to announce.

Adding to the tension, a shift in President Trump's schedule, who canceled his eldest son's wedding for "state affairs," fueled fears of escalating conflict. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism, telling reporters in New Delhi that there was "a possibility" of announcing an agreement to end the war soon. "There is a possibility that, either later today, tomorrow, or within a couple of days, we will have something to announce," Rubio stated, hoping for "good news."

In Tehran, chief Iranian negotiator Mohamad Baqer Qalibaf, who also chairs the Iranian Parliament, declared that any "act of madness" by Trump to restart the war would result in a "more crushing and bitter" outcome for the U.S. than the initial conflict. Qalibaf made these remarks after meeting with Pakistan's Army Chief, General Asim Munir, a key figure in international mediation efforts.

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If they attack Iran again [the result] will certainly be more crushing and bitter for the United States than on the first day of the war.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abás Araqchi, in a conversation with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, complained about Washington's "contradictory positions and repeated excessive demands," which he stated were disrupting the negotiation process mediated by Pakistan. Araqchi asserted that despite deep distrust of the U.S., Iran has engaged in diplomacy responsibly, seeking a "reasonable and equitable outcome."

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contradictory positions and repeated excessive demands

Meanwhile, the U.S. Central Command (Centcom) reported that its maritime blockade against Iranian ports, implemented in response to Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, has forced the diversion of 100 ships since its inception on April 13.

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Despite its deep distrust of the United States, the Islamic Republic of Iran has participated in the diplomatic process with a responsible approach and the utmost seriousness, seeking to achieve a reasonable and equitable outcome.