Tehran: Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi has clarified that no negotiations have been conducted so far between Iran and the United States. Araqchi made these remarks on Sunday during a meeting with the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee of the Iranian Parliament.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Araqchi emphasized Iran's stance on diplomacy and negotiations, albeit indirectly. He noted, "We have declared our stance, we advocate for diplomacy and negotiations, but indirectly. Of course, it should be admitted that no rounds of negotiations have been held so far." Araqchi attended the parliamentary committee meeting to provide an update on the current status of talks with Washington.

In 2018, former U.S. President Donald Trump initiated a 'maximum pressure' campaign against Iran after withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal established three years prior. Upon returning to office on January 20, Trump revived this campaign while expressing interest in direct negotiations with Iran for a new nuclear deal. Furthermore, Trump has threatened military action should a new agreement fail to materialize.

In response to these threats, which Iran has strongly dismissed, U.S. Senator Tom Cotton recently mentioned that Trump desires a deal with Iran akin to the 2003 Libya agreement with the United States. Reacting to this, Araqchi remarked, "He would dream on."

Araqchi also addressed a meeting led by French President Emmanuel Macron with key ministers and experts to discuss Iran's nuclear program. After the meeting, France's foreign minister cautioned about the risk of military confrontation if a new deal is not secured. Araqchi warned, "They have presented their own assessment, but if France takes any measure in line with potential military action against Iran, we will consider them complicit in any action against our country."