Islamabad | April 12, 2026
In a sharp escalation of rhetoric, Iran has openly criticized the United States over its conduct during the latest round of high-stakes negotiations held in Islamabad, accusing Washington of derailing diplomatic progress to serve Israel’s interests.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi expressed “deep disappointment” with the U.S., claiming that a phone call between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Vice President JD Vance during the meeting shifted the focus away from core U.S.-Iran issues.
Araghchi alleged that the interruption effectively redirected the agenda toward Israel’s strategic concerns, undermining the purpose of the dialogue. “We came here in good faith, but the direction of discussions was altered,” he said, signaling frustration within Tehran’s negotiating camp.
Taking a further swipe at Washington, the Iranian minister accused the U.S. of attempting to secure through diplomacy what it had failed to achieve militarily in recent weeks of escalating tensions. The comment underscores Tehran’s growing distrust of U.S. intentions amid the fragile regional climate.
Araghchi also criticized Vice President Vance’s press conference before departing Pakistan, calling it “unnecessary” and counterproductive to ongoing diplomatic efforts. He suggested such public statements risk complicating already sensitive negotiations.
Despite the mounting tensions, Iran reaffirmed its stance on defending national sovereignty. “We are fully committed and prepared to safeguard our nation’s interests,” Araghchi declared, signaling that Tehran remains firm even as diplomatic channels remain open.
The latest remarks highlight deep divisions between Washington and Tehran, raising fresh doubts about the future of negotiations and the prospects for de-escalation in an already volatile Middle East.
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