In an interview with Al Jazeera, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed direct communication with U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff during the ongoing conflict, while firmly rejecting claims that official negotiations are taking place.
«I receive messages from Witkoff directly, as before, and this does not mean that we are in negotiations,» Araghchi said. «There is no truth to the claim of negotiations with any party in Iran.»
The Iranian official also highlighted Tehran’s lack of trust in Washington, citing negative experiences in negotiations with the U.S.
«The trust level is at zero,» he said, referring to the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal and recent military developments.
Speaking on the future of the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi said Iran and Oman would decide its status after the war, adding that it should remain a «peaceful waterway.» However, he noted that during the conflict the strait would be closed to hostile nations, while remaining open to others, although many have refrained from using it.
Responding to reports of a possible U.S. ground invasion, Araghchi warned that Iran is prepared for confrontation.
«We are waiting for them,» he said, adding that Iran is «completely ready to confront any sort of ground attack,» while expressing doubt that such a move would occur.
Meanwhile, in a televised address, President Trump said the U.S. military will «finish the job» over the next «two or three weeks.»
The U.S. and Israel have been attacking Iranian military facilities and senior figures since Feb. 28, demanding that Tehran abandon its nuclear and long-range missile programs and halt support for armed groups across the Middle East. In turn, Iran has called for an end to the attacks, signaling it is open to peace if certain security guarantees are provided.
