Iran says communication channels with US ‘still open,’ rejects external pressure

By Tarek Chouiref

ISTANBUL (AA) - Iran’s Foreign Ministry said Monday that communication channels with the United States are “still open” through both direct contacts with a US special envoy and Switzerland as an intermediary, while stressing that Tehran will not accept any form of external pressure.

“Channels of dialogue with the United States remain open through both direct communication with the US special envoy and Switzerland as an intermediary,” ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei told a press conference broadcast by Press TV.

“Iran is a country of dialogue, but we will not accept dictates, and Iranians will not allow any form of foreign interference.”

Baghaei described the current situation in the country as “a terrorist war against the Iranian people” and a continuation of what he called US-Israeli aggression.

He said there is strong evidence pointing to the presence of armed foreign elements targeting civilians, noting that Iran will pursue the matter through international institutions.

The remarks came after US President Donald Trump said Iran had reached out to Washington for possible talks, amid heightened tensions and ongoing protests fuelled by worsening economic conditions.