January 28, 2026 — Dalena Reporters
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has publicly stated that Tehran has not sought negotiations with the United States in recent days, challenging comments from U.S. officials suggesting diplomatic engagement might be underway amid escalating tensions.
Speaking to state media on Wednesday, Araqchi said there has been no contact between him and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and that Iran has not requested negotiations with Washington. He noted that while intermediaries are “holding consultations,” no formal request for talks has been made by Iranian authorities.
“Our stance is clear,” the foreign minister said, asserting that negotiations cannot proceed alongside threats or excessive demands. He emphasised that meaningful talks can only occur when there are no outstanding menaces or conditions imposed on Iran.
Araqchi’s remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump described a U.S. “armada” of military assets moving toward Iran and expressed hope that Tehran would “make a deal with Washington.” However, the Iranian official reiterated that no such request has been made from Iran’s side.
Iran’s leader also underscored that consultations through various intermediaries remain ongoing, though they fall short of direct negotiations. Meanwhile, President Masoud Pezeshkian told Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman that Tehran would welcome any diplomatic process that prevents war and adheres to international law.
This development comes amid a backdrop of intense geopolitical friction, including U.S.–Iran military build-ups in the Gulf and domestic unrest in Iran — factors that have contributed to the bloodiest crackdown in the country since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.