Tehran, April 12 (ANI): Former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has sharply criticized Washington’s diplomatic approach, questioning the reasons behind the lack of progress in recent high-stakes talks.
Taking to social media platform X, Zarif challenged the premise of the negotiations, asking, “Want to know why negotiations did not succeed?”
In his assessment, Zarif pointed to what he described as a fundamental flaw in the United States’ negotiating strategy. He referenced a remark by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, quoting him as saying, “They have chosen not to accept our terms.”
Zarif used the statement to underscore what he views as a recurring issue in Western diplomacy. “Bingo,” he wrote, adding that “no negotiations—at least with Iran—will succeed based on ‘our/your terms.’” His remarks suggest that Tehran considers any framework built on unilateral demands to be untenable for lasting peace.
Expanding on his critique, Zarif warned that continuing such an approach would likely prolong the deadlock. He emphasized that sovereign equality and mutual respect are essential for any diplomatic breakthrough, rather than a top-down mandate.
“The U.S. must learn: you can’t dictate terms to Iran. It’s not too late to learn. Yet,” he said, indicating that while the possibility for constructive engagement remains, it would require a significant shift in Washington’s diplomatic posture.
Similar skepticism was expressed by Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf following the conclusion of discussions in Pakistan.
Ghalibaf said he had emphasized before the talks that while Iran had “good faith and will,” past experiences from two previous wars had eroded trust in the opposing side. He added that the lack of trust remained the primary obstacle, stating that the opposing side failed to gain the confidence of the Iranian delegation during this round of negotiations.
Despite the impasse, Ghalibaf acknowledged Pakistan’s role in facilitating the talks and extended his appreciation to the country and its people.
Providing further details, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei described the engagement with U.S. officials as the longest round of negotiations in the past year, lasting approximately 24 to 25 hours.
He said diplomacy remains a crucial tool to safeguard national interests, even in an environment marked by mistrust and uncertainty. Baqaei noted that recent military actions by the United States and Israel made a comprehensive agreement unlikely in a single session.
He added that the agenda had expanded to include regional issues, such as the Strait of Hormuz, and while some progress was made on a 10-point proposal, disagreements over key issues prevented a final agreement.
Baqaei also thanked Pakistan’s leadership for their efforts and hospitality, while confirming that consultations with regional allies would continue.
The developments come amid heightened tensions after U.S. President Donald Trump shared an article suggesting a potential naval blockade, as both nations remain divided over Iran’s nuclear program and strategic maritime control. (ANI)
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