Iran signals readiness for “dignified” talks to end war, demands guarantees and sanctions relief
Iran has expressed willingness to engage in negotiations to end the ongoing conflict with the US and Israel, but only “with dignity” and without being dictated to.
Abdul Majeed Hakeem Ilahi, Special Representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader, ‘said that’“We are ready to stop the war. We are ready for negotiations. But the negotiating should be with dignity, not dictating something against Iran. We are defending ourselves. We are looking for our right and nothing else.”
He stressed that Iran seeks assurances of no future attacks and the lifting of sanctions in exchange for peace. “No, in this circumstance, no one is ready for negotiation. Attacking us and then negotiating? No. But if they stop the war, guarantee they will not attack us again, and remove sanctions, why would we not negotiate? We are looking for peace,” Ilahi said.
Ilahi accused the US of initiating the war and urged Washington to stop the attacks. “They are the ones attacking us and bombing our civilians; we are simply defending ourselves,” he added.
He also noted that Iran had been negotiating with the US through Oman before recent hostilities. “We were moving toward a conclusion, on the verge of issuing a joint statement. It was immediately after this that America and Israel attacked us,” he said.
The conflict has escalated rapidly into a high-intensity air campaign, dubbed Operation Epic Fury, reshaping the Iranian political landscape.
Former US President Donald Trump dismissed Iran’s overtures as “too late,” claiming that Iran’s military infrastructure—including its Navy, Air Force, and air defenses—has been largely “obliterated.” He warned that military operations will continue until Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities are fully neutralized.
Defending Iran’s position, Ilahi emphasised Tehran’s commitment to peace and national unity. “We never left the negotiating table; they did. America started this war. Security and peace are affected for everyone during conflict. Their ultimate goal is not just Iran—they aim to curb the rise of other powerful nations,” he said.
Ilahi further alleged that the US is creating global conflicts to prevent emerging powers such as India, China, and Russia from gaining influence, aiming to maintain its dominance.
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian assured that the country remains stable and functional despite the crisis. “Ongoing activities continue nationwide. By delegating authority to the provinces, decision-making is swift and adapted to local conditions. National unity is our primary asset,” he said.
(Agency)
