Khamenei advisor says US talks may falter amid power-driven world order

A senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader said Saturday that the outcome of ongoing indirect negotiations with the United States depends on whether global powers act with “fairness and rationality.”

Ali Larijani, a former parliament speaker and close aide to Ali Khamenei, said the diplomatic process may or may not succeed, depending on how the current world order is managed.

“These talks may succeed, or they may not. It depends on whether there is fairness and rationality in how global affairs are conducted,” Larijani said.

He added that while international rules are often presented as multilateral, power dynamics ultimately drive outcomes. “Many global regulations are outwardly backed by international institutions, but behind them lies power,” he said.

“Right now, the Americans believe they must enforce their power,” he added, referring to what he described as Washington’s unilateral approach.

The remarks come as indirect nuclear talks between Iran and the US remain in limbo, following the postponement of a fourth round scheduled in Rome.

Larijani also said that Iran did not create groups like Hezbollah or Hamas, and dismissed the idea that Tehran relies on regional proxies.

“Did we create Hezbollah? No. It started when Israel occupied Beirut,” Larijani said. “They say Iran has armed branches — Iran doesn’t need armed branches.”

Referring to Israeli statements about Hamas, he said: “If Hamas has been destroyed, then whom are you exchanging prisoners with?”