Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said a lack of trust is the primary obstacle in negotiations with the U.S. to end the war [1, 2].

These remarks signal a significant diplomatic deadlock as both nations attempt to navigate a path toward peace. The insistence on a balanced agreement suggests that Tehran remains skeptical of U.S. intentions and the durability of any potential pact.

Araghchi said Friday during the BRICS summit in India [1, 2]. He said that the deep mistrust between the two nations is impeding the progress of talks aimed at concluding the conflict [3].

According to the foreign minister, the current stalemate is driven by contradictory signals coming from the United States [1, 4]. This inconsistency has led to a situation where Iran believes it cannot rely on American assurances [4].

"We cannot trust the Americans," Araghchi said [4].

Despite the friction, Araghchi said that Iran continues to favor a diplomatic solution to resolve the hostilities [4]. However, he emphasized that the terms of such an agreement must be equitable. He said that Tehran will only accept a fair and balanced deal [2].

"Lack of trust is the biggest obstacle in negotiations to end the war with the U.S.," Araghchi said [3].

The foreign minister's comments at the summit highlight the difficulty of bridging the gap between the two governments, a gap widened by years of sanctions and geopolitical rivalry.

“"We cannot trust the Americans."”

The insistence on a 'balanced' deal while explicitly stating a lack of trust suggests that Iran is seeking high-level guarantees or verifiable concessions before committing to a ceasefire. By airing these grievances at a BRICS summit, Tehran is likely signaling to its global partners that the responsibility for the diplomatic impasse lies with the United States.