Iranian President Masoud Bezhkian said Iran does not trust the U.S. following accusations that Washington attacked Iran twice [1] during negotiations.
The statement underscores the fragile nature of diplomatic efforts between the two nations, where a desire for peace competes with deep-seated historical grievances. While Bezhkian expressed a readiness for dialogue, his comments highlight the specific triggers that continue to stall a full diplomatic breakthrough.
Bezhkian said that the lack of trust stems from specific military actions. "Our country does not trust the United States, which has attacked Iran twice during the negotiation period," Bezhkian said.
Despite these tensions, the president said that Tehran remains open to peace and diplomatic engagement. However, he drew a firm line regarding the country's strategic military capabilities, specifically its missile program.
"No negotiations regarding ballistic missiles have been held and none will be held in the future," Bezhkian said.
The president also said the role of regional intermediaries in facilitating the current diplomatic environment is important. He noted that the involvement of neighboring states has been critical to maintaining the channel of communication between the opposing powers.
"I appreciate the great efforts made by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the Pakistani army chief during these talks," Bezhkian said.
This acknowledgment of Pakistan's mediation suggests that Tehran is leaning on regional partners to navigate the complexities of its relationship with the U.S. The president's remarks serve as both a warning about the costs of military aggression and a signal that certain red lines remain non-negotiable.
“"Our country does not trust the United States, which has attacked Iran twice during the negotiation period."”
The rhetoric indicates a dual-track strategy by the Iranian administration: maintaining a posture of openness to diplomacy to avoid isolation, while simultaneously signaling that its ballistic missile program is a sovereign prerogative exempt from bargaining. By praising Pakistan's mediation, Iran is also diversifying its diplomatic dependencies to reduce the direct pressure exerted by Western powers.
