TEHRAN: Iran will continue to engage in negotiations when necessary but does not trust commitments made by the United States, a senior Iranian parliament official has said, according to state-linked media.
Deputy Speaker of the Islamic Consultative Assembly Mojtaba Nikzad said Iran’s position is not limited to confrontation and that diplomacy remains an option when required. However, he stressed that Iranian authorities do not accept assurances from Washington.
“It is not correct to say that we only fight and do not negotiate,” Nikzad was quoted as saying by the semi-official Tasnim News Agency.
Nikzad rejected reports in foreign media suggesting famine or widespread disruption during periods of conflict, stating that despite large-scale displacement, basic needs such as food and housing were maintained through government management. He said approximately seven million people had been displaced at the height of tensions, with many relocating to northern regions of the country.
He also referred to what he described as “red lines” set by Iran’s Supreme Leader, saying these remain central to national policy. “We will negotiate if necessary, but we do not trust any promises from the Americans,” he said, accusing the United States of carrying out attacks against Iranian targets.
Nikzad cited alleged past incidents, including missile strikes targeting Iranian nuclear scientists and an attack on an elementary school in Minab in February 2026, which Iranian officials claim resulted in significant civilian casualties.
Separately, Iran’s judiciary chief said there was no internal disagreement among officials regarding resistance to external pressure, according to Tasnim.