Iran rules out US talks as Trump-Netanyahu meeting set amid fragile pause in hostilities
TEHRAN, July 27: Iran on Monday ruled out any ongoing negotiations with the United States despite a temporary halt in hostilities, while attention shifted to an upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expected later this week.
The latest developments come after Washington suspended its air campaign against Iran following 13 consecutive nights of strikes. Tehran had responded during the conflict by launching attacks on US military bases in the region. No fresh military strikes have been reported by either side over the past three days.
Speaking at a weekly press briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran was not engaged in any discussions with Washington.
“At present, we are not engaged in any negotiations with the United States,” Baghaei said, dismissing speculation that diplomatic talks had resumed following the pause in military action.
Iran had earlier indicated it would suspend its retaliatory attacks for as long as the United States refrained from carrying out further airstrikes.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to travel to the United States on Tuesday for talks with President Trump. The meeting is expected to focus on the evolving security situation in West Asia, Iran’s nuclear programme, regional stability and the next course of action following the suspension of hostilities.
The pause in fighting has also renewed international attention on the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important maritime route through which a significant share of global oil supplies passes. Iranian officials have continued to assert the country’s influence over the waterway amid ongoing regional tensions.
Although the cessation of military operations has eased immediate concerns of further escalation, uncertainty remains over whether the fragile calm will lead to renewed diplomatic efforts or merely delay another round of confrontation.
— Agencies
