Former Iranian Foreign Minister, Javad Zarif, has said the United States must realise it cannot impose its conditions on Iran, following the collapse of peace talks held in Pakistan.
Both sides confirmed that the negotiations, aimed at resolving tensions in the Gulf region, ended without any breakthrough.
Reacting via X on Sunday, Zarif stressed that the discussions failed because Iran would not accept terms dictated by the US.
He said, “No negotiations – at least with Iran – will be successful based on ‘our/your terms.’ The United States must understand: you cannot dictate terms to Iran. It is not too late to learn this lesson. Yet.”
Zarif, who served under former President Hassan Rouhani from 2013 to 2021, was in office during the 2015 nuclear deal reached with the US under Barack Obama.
However, the agreement was later abandoned by Donald Trump, who alleged Iran was pursuing a nuclear weapons programme.
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Sultan of Oman have called for restraint, urging all sides to avoid “any further escalation” in the ongoing tensions involving Iran.
According to Downing Street, both leaders emphasised the need to sustain the ceasefire and push for a peaceful resolution.
“They discussed the peace talks that took place in Pakistan over the weekend and urged both parties to seek a resolution.
“It is crucial that the ceasefire continues, and that all parties avoid any further escalation, as agreed by the leaders.
“His Majesty provided an update on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, and the Prime Minister expressed gratitude for Oman’s efforts to assist sailors from distressed vessels in the region.”
The UK also noted ongoing international efforts to ensure safe maritime operations and restore long-term freedom of navigation in the region.