BREAKING: Tehran: US Sent Revised Comments on Iran’s Proposal Despite Public Rejection

According to a report by Al-Jazeera on Monday, May 18, 2026, Iran says diplomatic discussion with the US is continuing through secondary routes despite Washington’s public rejection of its 14-point framework.

At his weekly press briefing on Monday, May 18, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Esmaeil Baqaei stated Pakistani mediation is still facilitating talks between both sides.

According to him, the US recently sent revised observations and counterpoints via Pakistan after Iran submitted its proposal and got Washington’s initial answer.

American considerations increased when we unveiled the 14-point proposal. We also gave our opinions, Baqaei said, adding that despite public pronouncements, the dialogue has continued.

He noted that Tehran received more comments through the same intermediate channel after the US openly rejected the idea.

Though the American side officially rejected this offer last week, the Pakistani mediator sent us new points and considerations reflecting their views, he said.

Baqaei said Iran has evaluated the latest inputs and sent its answer to Washington through Pakistan, emphasising that communication is ongoing.

He denied media claims concerning the US position, including limits or conflicts over Iran’s uranium enrichment program. He called such interpretations wrong and far from the talks.

He said Iran cannot negotiate its enrichment rights, adding, “The issue of enrichment has been repeatedly raised over the past two years, but our position remains unchanged.”

He claimed that Iran’s nuclear rights are safeguarded by international law and the NPT, thus external consent is not needed.

Besides nuclear challenges, Baqaei discussed regional marine security, calling the Strait of Hormuz a vital global route for trade and oil. He added Iran will ensure safe passage and sovereignty in the region.

He underlined that Tehran’s latest security steps are tied to external transgressions and are consistent with international law.

The speaker also reported ongoing negotiations with Oman to improve Strait of Hormuz marine safety. In Muscat, experts discussed improving coordination for safe navigation in the key canal, he said.

Iran is suing the US and Israel in international courts over alleged violations, Baqaei added. He mentioned allegations filed under bilateral and international agreements and arbitration systems.

Iranian authorities have registered multiple examples of alleged humanitarian law violations with international entities for review, he claimed.

In general, Baqaei distinguished between the US government and American citizens, emphasising that Tehran does not hate Americans.

He claimed state political decisions cause tensions, not public opinion.

Baqaei noted Iran’s strategic links with China and that senior officials are appointed to supervise China-related matters, demonstrating Tehran’s commitment to the cooperation. He said Iran prioritises Beijing collaboration in its foreign policy, especially under changing global dynamics.

He also condemned recent tensions with Kuwait over an Iranian border patrol vessel and demanded the release of arrested Iranians.

He also reacted on claims of an attack on a South Korean vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, saying investigations are ongoing but advising against premature conclusions and suggesting deliberate instability.

Baqaei stated that Iran wants regional talks to build trust and reduce tensions.