Tensions between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States have sharply escalated following a major military strike by Israel, which, according to Iranian authorities, occurred with the approval of Washington. As a result, Tehran has declared that talks over its nuclear program have become “meaningless.”
“The other side (the U.S.) has behaved in a way that has rendered dialogue pointless. You cannot claim to be interested in negotiations while allowing the Zionist regime (Israel) to target Iranian territory,” said Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry.
He added that the Israeli strikes would not have occurred without U.S. consent, underlining the damaging impact these developments have had on the diplomatic process.
“The Zionist regime has succeeded in undermining the diplomatic process,” Baghaei stated.
Earlier on Friday, Iran had officially accused the U.S. of being complicit in the Israeli attacks. However, Washington has denied any involvement, urging Tehran to show restraint regarding its nuclear ambitions.
According to international media reports, the sixth round of nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran was scheduled to take place on Sunday in Muscat, Oman. However, it remains unclear whether the meeting will proceed following the latest escalation.
Iran has categorically denied that its uranium enrichment program has military objectives, rejecting Israeli allegations of covert nuclear weapons development.
In a statement to Reuters, former U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledged that he and his team were aware of the Israeli strikes but maintained that they still believe a deal is possible.
