Iran hardens position, warns US and Israel amid rising tensions

Iranian lawmaker Mahmoud Nabavian has strongly criticized talks with the United States. He said negotiations with Washington are now “completely

Iranian lawmaker Mahmoud Nabavian has strongly criticized talks with the United States. He said negotiations with Washington are now “completely harmful and irrational.” He posted his statement on the social media platform X.

Nabavian was part of the Iranian delegation in the first round of talks held in Islamabad. Despite his earlier role in negotiations, he has now taken a firm anti-talks stance.

In a separate development, Iran’s elite military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, issued a strong warning. A spokesperson said that if Iran is attacked, its armed forces will respond immediately. He said Iran will strike pre-identified targets. He also warned of a strong retaliation against both the United States and Israel.

The statement did not mention the recent ceasefire extension. It also avoided any reference to diplomatic talks.

These remarks came shortly after US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire extension. However, Iranian authorities have not yet officially responded to his statement.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has remained silent so far. No comments have been issued by senior officials or Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. The chief Iranian negotiator has also not reacted publicly.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump has extended the ceasefire with Iran after a request from Pakistan’s leadership. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir asked for more time to allow diplomatic efforts to continue. Trump agreed and said the ceasefire will remain in place until Iran presents a unified proposal for talks.

Trump stated that the US military will stay ready for any situation. He made it clear that the naval blockade against Iran will continue. He also warned that the extension is temporary and depends on progress in negotiations. According to him, military action could resume if no agreement is reached soon.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif thanked Trump for accepting Pakistan’s request. He said Pakistan will continue to play its role as a mediator. He expressed hope that both sides will move forward with dialogue and reach a permanent peace agreement during the expected talks in Islamabad.