"No date has been set so far for the next round of indirect talks between Iran and the United States, contrary to Western media reports," several media outlets in Tehran reported citing an informed Iranian source.
Russia is increasingly concerned about escalating tensions surrounding Iran and the potential for the situation to spiral into a broader conflict, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Wednesday.
“We are seriously concerned about the growing tensions around Iran and the risk of a slide into full-scale confrontation,” Zakharova said in Moscow, according to Reuters.
Her remarks followed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s rejection of the US nuclear proposal on Wednesday.
Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s latest speech was his clearest stance yet ahead of a possible war scenario, said the international relations expert and security analyst Shahin Modarres.
“Given the substance of these remarks, the Trump administration is likely concerned and may push for a final round of negotiations in the coming weeks,” Modarres told Iran International TV.
If talks fail, he said, the US would swiftly move to impose severe economic pressure on Iran through snapback mechanisms or fresh international sanctions.
“Israel’s role will then become more pronounced,” Modarres added, pointing to the likelihood of at least a limited military strike on Iran’s nuclear sites to force Tehran back to the table.
Modarres said broader attacks on Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure would also remain on the table.
“We now face a narrowing window,” he said. “The question is whether either side is willing to step back from its maximalist position—or whether we are entering an extremely tense and dangerous phase.”
Iran will respond forcefully to any assault at sea, said Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri on Wednesday.
“Any warship or country that tries to attack us will face a strong response,” he added.
Tangsiri also praised Yemen’s Houthis, calling them “a source of pride for Islam.”
“They defend the oppressed and have proven their resolve through their support for Palestine.”
