Iran rejects threats, analyst cites U.S. psychological warfare

Iran on Wednesday rejected any possibility of negotiations with the United States as long as Washington continues to threaten military action, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s escalation of rhetoric and the deployment of additional U.S. naval forces to the Middle East. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said talks cannot take place under threats, warning that Iran would respond forcefully to any U.S. military operation while remaining open to a new nuclear deal if pressure ends. Trump urged Tehran to return to negotiations, warning that a “massive armada” was moving toward the region and that any future U.S. strike would be far more severe if no agreement is reached. Iranian officials said the country is focused on building deterrence against U.S. military pressure, warning that even limited attacks would trigger strong responses, while confirming that only indirect communication channels with Washington exist and no talks are underway. Iran has also sought regional support to oppose any potential U.S. strike, as several regional states called for diplomacy, amid heightened tensions that analysts described as U.S. psychological and military pressure aimed at forcing Iran back to the negotiating table.

Credit : CGTN