Iranian state television broadcast strong remarks from senior officials dismissing US President Donald Trump’s claims of recent negotiations, labelling him a “liar” and asserting that the US backed away from planned attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure due to fears of a powerful Iranian counter-response.
According to the broadcast, senior Iranian leaders categorically denied that any negotiations had taken place between Tehran and Washington. The statement directly contradicts narratives suggesting diplomatic engagement amid rising tensions in the region.
The report went further, alleging that Trump had been “humiliated” on the global stage and ultimately backed down from a potential military strike targeting Iranian energy infrastructure. Iranian officials claimed that this decision was driven by fear of a “decisive response” from Tehran, which they say would have carried serious consequences for US interests in the Middle East.
Broader Context
This comes amid a volatile period following military escalations, including US-backed or direct actions against Iranian targets, stalled nuclear-related discussions (previously in venues like Geneva via Oman), and threats over regional infrastructure. Recent reports also mentioned mediator efforts for potential meetings in Islamabad involving figures like Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and US envoys (Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, possibly VP JD Vance)—claims Iran appears to be countering here by denying any engagement.
Iran has consistently warned of strong responses to attacks on civilian or energy assets, while the US maintains pressure through military posturing and threats tied to nuclear concerns, sanctions, and proxy conflicts. Oil markets reacted with volatility to the mixed signals, with prices dipping on the reported pause but remaining sensitive to any flare-up.