Iran Labels US Demands “Maximalist And Irrational”, Denies Ceasefire Talks

Iran on Thursday sharply criticised the United States for what it described as “maximalist and irrational” demands, rejecting claims that negotiations were underway to end the ongoing conflict, just hours before Donald Trump was set to deliver a high-stakes national address on the war.

Speaking through state media, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran had received messages via intermediaries, including Pakistan, but stressed there were no direct talks with Washington. He accused the US of putting forward conditions that were unrealistic and unacceptable, signalling a widening diplomatic rift as the conflict intensifies.

The remarks came after Trump claimed that Iran’s leadership had sought a ceasefire, but insisted any pause in hostilities would require Tehran to reopen the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz. The narrow waterway, through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, has become a central flashpoint in the conflict, with its disruption already rattling global energy markets.

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Iran, however, pushed back strongly against the US position, with officials reiterating that no formal negotiations were taking place and warning they were prepared to respond to any escalation, including a potential ground invasion. Tehran has also maintained that control over the Strait of Hormuz remains a sovereign matter and a key lever in its confrontation with Western powers.

The escalating rhetoric comes amid continued military exchanges across the region, including missile and drone strikes targeting Israeli cities and US-linked facilities in the Gulf. Reports of explosions in Tehran and casualties in multiple countries underscore the widening geographic scope of the conflict, raising concerns about a broader regional war and its humanitarian consequences.

Trump’s anticipated address, his first major public statement since the conflict began in late February, is being closely watched for signals on Washington’s next steps. While the US president has suggested that military objectives are nearing completion, he has also warned of intensified action if Iran does not comply with American demands, adding to uncertainty over the war’s trajectory.

The standoff has also triggered significant economic fallout, with oil prices surging and global markets showing volatility amid fears of prolonged disruption in the Middle East. With both sides holding firm positions and diplomatic channels appearing limited, prospects for a near-term resolution remain uncertain as tensions continue to escalate.

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