Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has acknowledged that communications have occurred with the United States, either directly or through regional intermediaries, amidst the ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Araghchi emphasized that these contacts should not be interpreted as negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
“I receive messages from US special envoy Steve Witkoff directly, just as before, and this does not signify that we are engaging in negotiations,” he articulated.
“There is no truth to the assertion that negotiations are taking place with any party in Iran. All messages are relayed through the Foreign Ministry or received by it, and there exists communication between security agencies,” he stated, underlining that Tehran has yet to make a definitive decision regarding any negotiations with Washington due to existing reservations.
Furthermore, the foreign minister informed Al Jazeera that Tehran has not yet replied to the 15-point proposal sent by the US, “nor have we submitted any proposals or conditions.”
Reporting from Tehran, Al Jazeera correspondent Ali Hashem noted that while much of Araghchi’s statements were familiar, the notable revelation was the direct communication with Witkoff.
“The significant new piece of information is that he’s in contact directly with Witkoff and that there are ongoing security discussions,” he remarked.
Last week, a senior diplomatic source indicated to Al Jazeera that Iran had received a 15-point plan from the US intended to bring an end to the war. This plan encompassed requests for Iran to commit to never acquiring a nuclear weapon and to place limits on its missile arsenal in terms of range and quantity.
Nevertheless, the Iranian foreign minister reiterated that Iran is only willing to accept a cessation of all regional attacks rather than merely a ceasefire.
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