Iran Vows to Continue Talks Despite "Deep Distrust" of U.S., Cites Three Core Demands

According to Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Baghaei, on May 20 evening (local time), Iran will continue negotiations with the United States despite "strong distrust" of American intentions. Iran is maintaining contact with the U.S. through Pakistani intermediaries, with Tehran's core demands including ending regional conflicts, unfreezing Iranian overseas assets, and halting what it describes as maritime "piracy" against Iranian shipping.

Baghaei stated that while the U.S. conduct over the past 18 months has left a negative record, Iran is pursuing the diplomatic process with "seriousness and good faith," though maintaining "strong and justified" mistrust of Washington.