Iran’s Top Negotiator Says Tehran Will Not Compromise In Talks With U.S.

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During discussions in Tehran on Saturday, Iran’s top negotiator, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, informed Pakistani army chief Asim Munir that the U.S. was not a trustworthy party in negotiations to end the conflict, and that Iran would not compromise on its national rights, as reported by state television.

A mediation effort led by Pakistan is aiming to bridge the gap between Iran and the U.S. after weeks of conflict that have closed the vital waterway of the Strait of Hormuz to most shipping, disrupting global energy markets.

Munir also met with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in Tehran, discussing a 14-point document proposed by Iran as the main framework for the talks.

The discussions focused on the messages exchanged between the two sides, with Iran reaffirming its commitment to its legitimate rights through both military and diplomatic means, while expressing mistrust towards the U.S.

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir (L) meets with Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf (R), who heads the Iranian delegation in negotiations with the US, in Tehran, Iran on May 23, 2026. (Photo by Iranian Parliament Speaker Office / Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Qalibaf emphasized that Iran has enhanced its military capabilities during the ceasefire and warned of severe consequences if the U.S. initiates hostilities again.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged progress towards a potential deal but noted that significant work still needs to be done, while Iran’s foreign ministry highlighted the deep differences that remain.

Despite the ongoing conflict, Iran has maintained its enriched uranium stockpile and military capabilities, which the U.S. and Israel seek to limit.

(Reporting by Jana ChoukeirEditing by Tomasz Janowski and Kevin Liffey)