BREAKING: Khatibzadeh: Talks With The US Cannot Happen Until The Two Sides Agree On A Shared Framework

According to Aljazeera News, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh announced that direct negotiations with the United States cannot proceed until both sides first agree on a mutual framework, casting further doubt on the near-term prospects for diplomatic engagement.

Speaking to state-affiliated media on Monday, Khatibzadeh emphasized that Tehran remains open to dialogue in principle but will not enter formal talks without clear, pre-established parameters. His remarks come amid ongoing stalemates over Iran’s nuclear program and regional tensions.

“Talks with the US cannot happen until the two sides agree on a shared framework, Khatibzadeh said. He added that whatever Iran agrees to in negotiations must preserve its rights under international law, particularly regarding sanctions relief and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

The deputy minister’s statement appeared to push back against recent signals from Washington that it is ready for renewed, unconditional discussions. US State Department officials have previously called for direct engagement to curb Iran’s advancing uranium enrichment.

Khatibzadeh did not specify what the proposed framework would entail, but analysts suggest it would likely include guarantees on lifting economic sanctions and recognition of Iran’s legal entitlements. Without such a foundation, he warned, talks would be a waste of time.

The comments reflect deepening Iranian skepticism toward US intentions, especially after Washington’s withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal under former President Donald Trump. For now, Tehran insists that process must come before substance.