TEHRAN, JAN 28: Iran on Wednesday rejected claims that it had sought negotiations with the United States, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi firmly denying any recent contact with Washington amid rising regional tensions.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said he had not been in contact with US special envoy Steve Witkoff in recent days. He also dismissed reports suggesting Tehran had requested negotiations with Washington.

“There was no contact between me and Witkoff in recent days and no request for negotiations was made from us,” Araqchi told Iranian state media.

Intermediaries remain in touch
While denying direct engagement, Araqchi acknowledged that indirect channels remain active. He said various intermediaries were “holding consultations” and were in contact with Tehran.

However, he made clear that these contacts should not be interpreted as a move toward formal talks with the United States.

Iran rejects talks under threats
Araqchi reiterated Iran’s long-standing position that negotiations cannot proceed under pressure. He said talks are only possible when threats and what he described as “excessive demands” are removed.

“Our stance is clear,” he said, adding that negotiations do not go along with menaces.

The remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump said another “armada” was moving toward Iran. Trump also expressed hope that Tehran would eventually make a deal with Washington.

The United States has recently deployed additional military assets to the Gulf region following nationwide protests in Iran. The unrest led to the country’s deadliest crackdown since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.