Iranian president says ‘mistrust’ of US government remains ahead of peace talks

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday said his country’s “mistrust” for the U.S. government remains as the second round of peace talks will soon kick off in Islamabad, Pakistan.

“Honoring commitments is the basis of meaningful dialogue,” Pezeshkian wrote in a post on the social platform X.

“Deep historical mistrust in Iran toward U.S. gov conduct remains, while unconstructive & contradictory signals from American officials carry a bitter message; they seek Iran’s surrender. Iranians do not submit to force,” he added.

On Monday, Iran released new numbers showing at least 3,375 people had been killed during the war with the U.S. and Israel. 

Earlier this month, Pezeshkian wrote an open letter signaling that he’s open to quickly implementing a diplomatic resolution. 

“Continuing along the path of confrontation is more costly and futile than ever before,” Pezeshkian wrote. 

“The choice between confrontation and engagement is both real and consequential; its outcome will shape the future for generations to come,” he added.

Since the war began on Feb. 28, Tehran says it has been defending itself from the onslaught of U.S. and Israeli strikes.Vice President Vance, special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner are expected to represent the U.S. in talks with Iran. 

The previous round of peace negotiations ended after Iran said U.S. officials were aiming to deny their right to uranium enrichment, which is used to produce energy, heating and cooling in addition to nuclear weapons at certain levels.

Iran’s state news agency on Sunday slammed the U.S. for “excessive demands and unreasonable, unrealistic requests.”

Meanwhile, Trump has accused Iran of violating the short-term ceasefire, scheduled to end on Wednesday, by firing at a vessel from France and the United Kingdom attempting to use the Strait of Hormuz. 

On Sunday, U.S. Marines seized an Iranian-flagged vessel that was trying to get through the American naval blockade in the critical waterway. 

Iran vowed to retaliate against the measure, leading some to put a damper on the future outcome of peace talks.

Trump recently told Bloomberg that he’s not likely to extend the two-week ceasefire with Iran.

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