“Despite Aggression, the Door to Talks Remains Open”: Iran’s Message to US, as Tehran Rejects US Ceasefire Proposal Delivered via Iraq

TEHRAN: A senior Iranian diplomatic official has said that despite ongoing tensions, Tehran has not closed the door to diplomacy, and the exchange of messages with the United States continues through various regional mediators.
Speaking to the media, the Iranian official accused the US of violating international law by targeting Iran’s critical infrastructure, saying attacks on civilian installations could amount to war crimes and reflect American helplessness.
The senior official said Iran has always maintained a positive approach toward negotiations and diplomatic solutions, but that the US’s threatening policy, aggressive actions, and continued military operations have severely damaged the environment for talks. According to the official, Iran still considers the diplomatic path important for resolving differences, but is simultaneously keeping all possible alternatives under consideration to protect its national security and interests.
The official further claimed that the current crisis stems primarily from the US’s alleged withdrawal from a memorandum of understanding reached on June 17. Washington, he said, failed to honor its commitments, causing tensions in the region to intensify again. Iranian officials say that if the US changes its policy and honors the terms of the agreement, room for diplomatic progress exists — but under current circumstances, Tehran will continue pursuing its defensive and political strategy.