Iran’s Araghchi Rejects U.S. Talks Amid Ongoing Israeli Attacks

On Friday, June 20, 2025, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi firmly rejected negotiations with the United States while Israel’s ongoing military attacks on Iran persist, as stated in an interview on state television. Araghchi noted that the U.S. had sent multiple messages urging serious talks, but he emphasized, “As long as the aggression does not stop, there will be no place for diplomacy and dialogue.” The comments come as Araghchi was set to travel to Geneva for discussions with European counterparts, amid the escalating Israel-Iran conflict that began on June 13, 2025, with Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, killing 224, followed by Iran’s retaliatory missile and drone attacks, including hypersonic missiles, killing 23 Israelis (Reuters, AP News). The conflict has disrupted prior U.S.-Iran nuclear talks scheduled for June 15 in Oman, with Iran’s stance hardening as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed “no mercy” for Israel on June 18 (BBC News). Posts on X, such as @AJEnglish, highlight Iran’s defiance, while @Reuters notes the U.S.’s defensive military posture, with B-52 bombers deployed to Diego Garcia. Araghchi’s rejection underscores the diplomatic stalemate, with Brent crude prices at $74.72 per barrel and fears of a Strait of Hormuz closure looming (South China Morning Post).