Iran Archives - Page 5 of 8

President Trump confident Iran will end uranium enrichment

May 12, 2026 by Newsdesk

WASHINGTON: US Donald Trump said he is confident that Iran will completely halt uranium enrichment and abandon efforts to develop nuclear weapons.

In his latest remarks, President Trump said he believes Iran will stop uranium enrichment “100 percent” and give up any attempt to acquire nuclear weapons capability.

The U.S. president also stated that the United States would secure Iran’s nuclear waste and emphasized that work on a possible agreement with Tehran must move quickly, although no rushed decision would be made.

Trump said that despite the ongoing blockade, Washington would not act hastily regarding Iran and confirmed that direct contacts had taken place with Iranian officials during the negotiations.

Referring to his comments from the previous day, Trump said the United States had achieved a major military success and that he felt no pressure or frustration over the Iran issue.

He reiterated his claim that the United States would achieve a “complete victory” regarding Iran and suggested that resolving the dispute could lead to lower global oil prices.

US-Iran talks likely to start in Islamabad next week: report

May 9, 2026 by Newsdesk

Islamabad: Negotiations between the United States and Iran are expected to resume in Islamabad next week, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal.

Citing sources familiar with the matter, the newspaper reported that both sides are working with mediators to finalize a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU).

The one-page document is intended to establish a one-month framework for negotiations aimed at paving the way for an end to the ongoing conflict.

According to the report, the draft covers key issues including Iran’s nuclear programme, efforts to reduce tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, and the possible transfer of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles to a third country.

However, several major issues remain unresolved.

The report said the scope and extent of sanctions relief continue to be a central point of disagreement and could pose a significant obstacle to reaching an agreement.

The Wall Street Journal added that if substantial progress is made, both parties may agree to extend the initial one-month negotiation period.

The first round of talks between the United States and Iran was held in Islamabad on April 11, where delegations from both countries engaged in approximately 21 hours of discussions.

The meeting concluded without a formal agreement, but officials described the dialogue as an important step toward continued diplomatic engagement.

Iran to play in World Cup 2026, seeks guarantees from hosts

May 9, 2026 by Newsdesk

TEHRAN: Iran national football team has confirmed that it will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026, while urging host nations the United States, Canada, and Mexico to address its security and logistical concerns.

According to the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, regional tensions and recent political developments had raised uncertainty over the team’s participation.

However, the federation said a final decision has been made and Iran will compete in the tournament.

Federation President Mehdi Taj said Iran has presented 10 conditions to the host countries. These include the uninterrupted issuance of visas for players and officials, respect for Iran’s national flag and anthem, and comprehensive security arrangements for the team.

Iran has also sought assurances that players who may face additional scrutiny due to past affiliations will not encounter visa-related obstacles.

Earlier, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that Iran’s matches in the United States would proceed as scheduled.

Iran has been drawn in Group G alongside New Zealand national football team, Belgium national football team, and Egypt national football team. The team is set to play its opening match on June 15 in Los Angeles.

Marco Rubio says Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons

May 8, 2026 by Newsdesk

ROME: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that no country in the world wants to see Iran acquire nuclear weapons, stressing that the United States will not allow Tehran to develop such capabilities under any circumstances.

Speaking during a media briefing, Rubio said Washington is still awaiting Iran’s response to recent proposals, but expects a reply to arrive within the day. He expressed hope that serious negotiations with Tehran could move forward.

He also claimed that the US Navy has blocked 70 tankers heading toward Iran, reiterating that control of strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz cannot be monopolized by any single country.

Rubio clarified that recent strikes on Iran were not part of “Operation Epic Fury” and warned that any missile attacks on US forces would be met with a strong retaliatory response.

On regional matters, the US Secretary of State said Washington would not engage in talks with Hezbollah and is focusing its diplomatic efforts solely on the Lebanese government.

Regarding NATO deployments, he stated that no specific decisions were discussed during meetings in Italy, adding that final authority on troop movements rests with the US President.

On China and Taiwan, Rubio said there has been no change in US policy, though discussions may take place during any future presidential visit to China.

He also noted that the United States is ready to mediate a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, urging both sides to make progress in negotiations, while warning that Washington will not engage in endless talks without results.

Rubio emphasized that the United States will continue diplomatic efforts to resolve global conflicts but will avoid prolonged negotiations that fail to deliver practical outcomes.

Iran sends negotiation proposal to US via Pakistan amid ongoing diplomatic efforts

May 1, 2026 by Newsdesk

TEHRAN: Iran has reportedly sent a new proposal for negotiations to the United States through Pakistani intermediaries, according to Iranian state media outlet IRNA.

The report stated that the proposal was delivered on Thursday. Earlier Iranian proposals had demanded an end to hostilities, guarantees against future attacks, and included readiness to reopen the Strait of Hormuz if maritime blockades were lifted, followed by discussions on the nuclear issue. However, those earlier proposals were rejected by the US President at the time.

News agencies reported that when asked about Iran’s use of Pakistan as a channel, the White House said it does not comment on private diplomatic communications, adding that discussions are ongoing.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei confirmed that Pakistan is acting as the formal mediator in talks between Tehran and Washington. He said several countries are willing to assist, but Pakistan holds the official role of mediator in the process.

Baghaei added that if a formal decision is made to hold negotiations, it will be officially announced.

He also reiterated Iran’s position regarding recent tensions, calling the US seizure of an Iranian vessel “piracy at sea” and saying the matter is being raised through Pakistani mediation to secure the release of detained Iranian citizens.

Separately, he rejected US claims that recent strikes were defensive in nature, stating that the actions represented “open aggression against Iran” rather than self-defense.

US stresses privacy in sensitive diplomatic engagements with Iran

April 27, 2026 by Newsdesk

The second round of ceasefire negotiations between the United States and Iran remains stalled amid continued uncertainty, although recent statements from the White House have indicated possible diplomatic progress.

According to international media, White House Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Velez said that sensitive diplomatic discussions with Iran will not be disclosed publicly.

She added that President Donald Trump has made it clear that the United States will prioritize its own conditions in any agreement and will not accept any deal that compromises American interests.

The statement also reaffirmed Washington’s position that Iran must never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons.

The US and Israel have repeatedly warned Iran to fully halt its uranium enrichment activities, which they believe could potentially lead to nuclear weapons development.

However, Iran maintains its long-standing position that nuclear issues are not part of its current negotiations with the United States, further complicating diplomatic efforts.

US signals tough stance as Rubio says Iran seeks path toward agreement

April 27, 2026 by Newsdesk

WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that Iranian negotiators appear serious about reaching an agreement with the United States and are looking to move past the current diplomatic deadlock.

In an interview with Fox News, Rubio said that while Iranian negotiators want to resolve the ongoing impasse, he believes the country’s political leadership is “fragmented” and creating obstacles in the negotiation process.

He further claimed that Iran’s leadership is seeking additional time, adding that the country is facing severe economic difficulties, including high inflation, financial strain on state institutions, and challenges in paying salaries.

Rubio also asserted that Iran’s missile capabilities have significantly weakened, claiming reductions in stockpiles and damage to production facilities, along with losses in its air and naval strength.

When asked about the US response if Iran refuses to engage in talks, Rubio said such decisions rest with former President Donald Trump, adding that economic sanctions on Iran are already “extraordinary” and could be further intensified.

He argued that the ongoing tensions have highlighted what he described as the threat posed by Iran, claiming that Tehran seeks to use both its energy resources and strategic position to exert pressure globally an approach he termed unacceptable.

Iran defeats Pakistan in Kabaddi at Asian Beach Games

April 23, 2026 by Newsdesk

Sanya: In the ongoing Asian Beach Games in China’s city of Sanya, Iran defeated Pakistan national kabaddi team in a competitive match.

Iran secured a 38–28 victory over Pakistan in the kabaddi contest, delivering a strong performance throughout the game.

Meanwhile, in the aquathlon events, Pakistan’s Hamza Asif finished 28th in the men’s final, which featured 31 athletes. He recorded a personal best time of 37.26 minutes.

In the women’s aquathlon final, Pakistan’s Ayesha Waqas secured 25th position among 27 competitors, also achieving a personal best with a time of 56.32 minutes.

The Asian Beach Games continue to feature multiple sporting events with athletes from across the continent competing for top positions.

Pakistan steps up diplomatic efforts to bring Iran to second round of talks

April 22, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has intensified high-level diplomatic engagement with Iran to persuade Tehran to participate in the second round of negotiations aimed at sustaining a fragile ceasefire and paving the way for lasting peace, informed sources said.

According to officials familiar with the development, Pakistan’s top leadership is in active contact with Iranian authorities. Key figures involved include Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

Sources said Islamabad’s primary objective is to prevent any potential escalation while ensuring the continuation of the ceasefire. Pakistan is also working to bring both sides to the table for direct negotiations to achieve long-term regional stability.

A well-placed source stated that Pakistan is making every possible effort and is currently awaiting a formal response from Iran regarding its participation.

Officials indicated that once confirmation is received, Pakistan is prepared to host the second round of talks in Islamabad. “We are ready to facilitate and host the talks,” the source added.

Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar clarified that Pakistan is still awaiting official confirmation from the Iranian side regarding the proposed peace talks.

He emphasized that Pakistan continues to play a mediatory role and remains engaged with Iranian leadership through ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Tarar also noted that the current ceasefire is set to expire early on April 22 (Pakistan time), underlining the urgency for Tehran to make a timely decision on joining the next phase of negotiations.

Iran confirms participation in FIFA World Cup 2026

April 22, 2026 by Newsdesk

TEHRAN: Iran has officially confirmed its participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, despite earlier political tensions surrounding the tournament.

According to the Iranian Ministry of Sports, the national football team is fully prepared to take part in the global event, which is scheduled to begin on June 11.

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani also confirmed that all necessary arrangements for participation have been completed.

The announcement comes after comments from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who had previously stated that Iran would be part of the tournament.

Iran has already qualified for the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The team’s matches are currently scheduled to be played in the United States.

Under the group stage fixtures, Iran is set to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 27.

Earlier reports suggested that the Iranian Football Federation had considered requesting FIFA to relocate its matches to Mexico due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Israel. However, no final decision on venue changes has been confirmed.

The participation had also drawn political commentary, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier suggested Iran’s participation in the U.S. might be inappropriate under current conditions. Iran, however, maintained that no country could exclude its national team from the tournament.

Despite tensions, both sporting authorities and political figures have now indicated that Iran will take part in the global football event as planned.