Iran Denies Refusing Peace Talks in Pakistan, Faults Western Media Reports

Iran Denies Refusing Peace Talks in Pakistan, Faults Western Media Reports

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has dismissed claims circulating in Indian and Western media that Tehran declined mediation talks in Pakistan, describing such reports as false and misleading.

In a fresh clarification, Araghchi stated that Iran has “never refused to go to Islamabad” for negotiations, reaffirming the country’s openness to diplomatic engagement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.

He expressed gratitude to Pakistan for its efforts to mediate between Iran and the United States, noting that Islamabad’s role remains appreciated despite conflicting media narratives.

The Iranian minister accused sections of the Western media of misrepresenting Tehran’s position, insisting that the issue is not about rejecting talks, but about ensuring that any negotiations lead to a “conclusive and lasting end” to the war.

His comments come amid widespread reports suggesting that Iran had refused to participate in proposed mediation talks in Pakistan, fueling speculation that diplomatic efforts had collapsed. However, both Iranian and Pakistani officials have pushed back against such claims, maintaining that dialogue channels remain open.

The clarification also highlights the complex and evolving nature of backchannel diplomacy in the ongoing conflict, where disagreements over terms—not venue—appear to be the major stumbling block to formal negotiations.

As tensions continue to rise in the region, Pakistan’s mediation initiative is still seen as a potential pathway to de-escalation, even as both sides remain far apart on key conditions for peace.

Iran Denies Refusing Peace Talks in Pakistan, Faults Western Media Reports