Iran says diplomacy remains priority as talks with Washington continue through mediators

Friday 14 August 2026 - 10:12

By: Azzat Manal

Iran says diplomacy remains priority as talks with Washington continue through mediators

Iran says it continues indirect negotiations with the United States through intermediaries, while maintaining that it is prepared to defend its territory amid heightened regional tensions.

Iranian Ambassador to Thailand Nasr al-Din Haidari said Tehran remains committed to diplomatic efforts and is communicating with Washington through mediators. He stressed that the main issue is whether the US side is prepared to honor its commitments.

According to Haidari, diplomacy remains Iran’s preferred option, although the country continues to maintain a high level of military readiness. His remarks reflect Tehran’s attempt to keep diplomatic channels open while tensions with Washington remain elevated.

Iranian officials have also linked any potential progress in negotiations to broader regional issues. Mohsen Rezaei, a senior member of Iran’s national security leadership, called on the United States to end the conflict and release frozen Iranian funds. He also argued that efforts should be made to end hostilities across the region, including in Lebanon and Gaza.

Iran has reportedly conveyed additional conditions to the United States through intermediaries as discussions continue. However, the indirect nature of the negotiations leaves considerable uncertainty over the possibility of reaching an agreement.

At the same time, the US military has indicated that it remains prepared to resume strikes against Iranian infrastructure if necessary. Such statements have added to concerns that diplomatic efforts could be undermined by renewed military confrontation.

The situation therefore remains fragile, with both diplomatic and military options still on the table. While Tehran says it prioritizes negotiations, its insistence on maintaining defensive readiness highlights the continuing lack of trust between Iran and the United States.

The coming period could prove decisive for determining whether mediation efforts can lead to meaningful progress or whether renewed tensions will push the two sides back toward confrontation.