Iran says US no longer in position to impose policies on sovereign states; officials hint at phased escalation before talks
Washington can no longer compel sovereign nations to adopt its policy framework: Reza Talaei-Nik
Tehran: Amid continued uncertainty surrounding Iran–US diplomatic engagement, Iranian officials have asserted that the United States is no longer in a position to impose its policies on independent states. The remarks come as US President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism over a recent Iranian proposal linked to a potential ceasefire arrangement.
According to Iran’s Ministry of Defence spokesperson Reza Talaei-Nik, Washington can no longer compel sovereign nations to adopt its policy framework. He added that the United States must abandon what he described as “illegal and irrational demands,” as reported by Iranian state media.
Separately, during a meeting of defence ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation held in the Kyrgyz capital, Iran’s deputy defence minister emphasised Tehran’s willingness to share defence capabilities with friendly countries, particularly SCO member states.
Meanwhile, an unnamed senior Iranian official was quoted as saying that the situation is expected to follow a phased trajectory, beginning with a limited resumption of hostilities, followed by a return to negotiations.
The official further suggested that unresolved issues—such as Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium and the level of enrichment activity—remain central obstacles. He argued that lifting maritime restrictions on Iranian ports and reopening key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz without addressing these concerns would weaken Washington’s negotiating position.
The developments come at a time of heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, with diplomatic efforts remaining fragile and future talks still uncertain.
