Iran’s Pezeshkian rejects US authority over nuclear rights

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has strongly asserted that US President Donald Trump has no justification to deprive Iran of its nuclear rights, as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to deepen over Iran’s nuclear programme and broader regional security concerns.

Quoting the Iranian Student News Agency, Pezeshkian questioned the legitimacy of US demands, saying Iran is being denied its nuclear rights without any valid reason. “Trump says Iran cannot make use of its nuclear rights but does not say for what crime. Who is he to deprive a nation of its rights?” he was quoted as saying.

Addressing a press conference, the Iranian president criticised Trump’s remarks on Iran’s nuclear programme, stressing that no world leader has the authority to strip a sovereign nation of its rights or restrict its access to peaceful nuclear energy. He argued that such positions contradict international principles and undermine state sovereignty.

Meanwhile, diplomatic contacts between Washington and Tehran continue despite widening differences. Iran’s chief negotiator said recent discussions with the United States have shown limited progress, but significant gaps remain, particularly over nuclear issues and the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump also described the discussions as “very good conversations,” while warning against what he termed “blackmail” related to the key maritime route.

However, neither side has provided detailed updates on the status of negotiations, which come at a sensitive moment as a fragile ceasefire linked to the broader US-Israel-Iran conflict approaches its expiration.

The conflict, now in its eighth week, has resulted in thousands of casualties and has expanded hostilities into Lebanon, while significantly disrupting global energy markets due to instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for international oil shipments.

Iranian officials said that while progress has been made in talks, major differences remain unresolved. Iran’s negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf stated that both sides maintain firm “red lines,” although only a small number of issues remain under discussion.

At the same time, Trump reiterated that the United States is engaged in constructive discussions but did not provide further details. He also warned that military options remain on the table if a long-term agreement is not reached before the ceasefire deadline.

In parallel, developments in the Strait of Hormuz have further heightened concerns, with reports of maritime disruptions and rising tensions affecting one of the world’s most vital energy corridors. Iran has linked its actions to what it describes as continued US pressure on Iranian ports and alleged violations of ceasefire arrangements.

Reports also indicate that at least two vessels were targeted while attempting to pass through the Strait, prompting diplomatic concern from several countries. India, for instance, summoned the Iranian ambassador in New Delhi after two Indian-flagged ships reportedly came under fire in the area.

US Central Command stated that American forces are continuing maritime enforcement operations, though it did not comment on the latest incidents involving Iranian actions. The situation has raised fears that oil and gas shipments through the Strait could remain disrupted, especially as Trump considers whether to extend the ceasefire.

Earlier, negotiations between US and Iranian representatives in Islamabad reportedly included proposals such as a long-term suspension of Iran’s nuclear activities by Washington and a shorter-term halt suggested by Tehran. However, no agreement has been reached.

Iran’s deputy foreign minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said no date has yet been fixed for the next round of negotiations, adding that both sides must first agree on a broader framework before talks can proceed further.

Trump had earlier suggested that a deal could be close, stating there were “very good conversations” and indicating possible talks within the week, although no preparations for new negotiations have been confirmed.

Meanwhile, senior US national security officials have continued internal consultations with discussions ongoing at the White House involving key members of the administration.

Pressure is also mounting domestically in the United States, as rising fuel prices, inflation, and political considerations ahead of midterm elections add urgency to efforts to resolve the conflict.

Global markets have reacted sharply to developments, with oil prices falling and stock markets gaining on expectations of improved maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz.

However, shipping sources report that hundreds of vessels and thousands of seafarers remain stranded in the Gulf, awaiting safe passage as uncertainty continues to dominate the region.