Iran suspends indirect talks with US over Lebanon

Istanbul (ANTARA) - Iran has suspended indirect talks and text exchanges with the US via mediators in protest against ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon, according to semi-official news agency Tasnim on Monday.

The agency reported the decision was made in response to what Iran described as continued Israeli ceasefire violations in Lebanon, which it considers a fundamental condition for a broader regional ceasefire agreement.

Tasnim stated Iran’s negotiation team would halt ‘talks and text exchanges via mediators’ until their demands regarding Gaza and Lebanon are met. Reports indicate Iranian officials and negotiators have stressed the need for an immediate cessation of Israeli military operations in Gaza and Lebanon, as well as the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied areas in Lebanon.

‘Until Iran’s position and the resistance axis’s stance on this issue are addressed, there will be no talks,’ Tasnim reported.

The news agency also stated that Iran and its allied resistance groups have decided to prepare a response to Israeli attacks and consider opening additional fronts. Measures under consideration include the complete closure of the Hormuz Strait and activation of other fronts, such as the Bab al-Mandab Strait, to pressure Israel and its supporters.