Iran rejects US talks after Israeli strikes in Beirut

By Taiwo Scholarstica

Iran has said there is “no point” in continuing peace talks with the United States, blaming Washington for failing to keep its promises in the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The statement came after Israel carried out fresh strikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs, targeting areas linked to Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group.

Iran’s chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said the latest attacks showed that the US was either unwilling or unable to fulfil its commitments in the peace process. He added that continuing negotiations under such conditions made no sense.

The comments also followed reports that a major peace deal involving the US, Iran, and regional actors was expected to be signed soon, possibly on Sunday. Former US President Donald Trump had earlier claimed that an agreement was close and would be signed immediately, with the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz expected afterward.

However, Iran denied confirming any final agreement, saying discussions were still ongoing and uncertain.

Tensions rose further after Israel launched strikes in Beirut, which it said were aimed at Hezbollah positions. Lebanese authorities reported casualties and injuries from the attack.

Iran has insisted that any peace deal must also address the conflict involving Hezbollah in Lebanon, not just its dispute with the United States and Israel.

Iranian officials also warned that the latest Israeli strikes would not go unanswered, raising fears of further escalation.

At the same time, international mediators, including Qatar, have been working to finalize the agreement and reduce tensions between the parties.

One of the biggest issues in the negotiations remains the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. Iran wants to maintain control over the waterway, while the US has opposed this demand.

Another major dispute is over Iran’s nuclear programme, with Western countries accusing Tehran of trying to develop nuclear weapons, a claim Iran denies.

Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, both sides continue to exchange strong warnings, while military actions in the region have made the peace process more uncertain.