Desk Report ; Tehran – Iran has suspended all indirect peace talks and communication with the United States, conducted through intermediaries.
The announcement was made on Monday evening by the country’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency. Tehran cited ongoing Israeli military actions in Lebanon and Gaza as the primary reason for the decision.
According to the Tasnim report, as the divide over a potential agreement to end the Middle East conflict widens, Tehran has halted all forms of dialogue and exchange of draft agreements with Washington.
Global Oil Prices Surge
Following the news of the suspended talks, global crude oil prices experienced a dramatic spike. Brent crude for August delivery surged by 4.9%, reaching $95.60 per barrel. Meanwhile, US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for July delivery jumped 5.9%, trading at $92.55 per barrel.
Violation of Ceasefire Conditions
The report highlighted that the continuous criminal activities of the “Zionist regime” (Israel) in Lebanon were a major factor behind the suspension. Achieving a ceasefire in Lebanon was a core condition for any ongoing peace talks, a condition that has been repeatedly violated. Consequently, the Iranian negotiating team decided to freeze all mediated communications.
Earlier, Iran’s Foreign Ministry reiterated that a ceasefire in Lebanon remains a non-negotiable prerequisite for ending the regional war and reaching any agreement with the US.
Netanyahu Orders Fresh Strikes
During a regular press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated, “We emphasize that a ceasefire in Lebanon is an essential condition for any agreement aimed at ending the war.” He added that Iran would take all necessary measures to support Lebanon and the Hezbollah resistance against Israeli aggression.
On the same day as Iran’s announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered fresh airstrikes on the suburbs of Beirut. This followed the capture of the historic Beaufort Castle by Israeli forces.
In a statement, Netanyahu declared, “My directive now is to further strengthen and expand our control over Hezbollah-held areas.”