- Iran's Parliament Speaker accuses the U.S. of trying to force a surrender through coercive tactics.
- Tehran signals willingness to negotiate only if threats and ultimatums are dropped.
- The standoff adds risk to global oil markets and Gulf stability.
Ghalibaf's Remarks
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Monday that President Donald Trump is pressuring Iran to surrender, according to the semi-official Tasnim news agency. "The U.S. approach is not negotiation but an attempt to force surrender," Ghalibaf stated, pushing back against what he described as coercive demands. Tehran has repeatedly insisted that any talks must occur without threats or ultimatums.
Diplomatic Stalemate
The comments come as back-channel diplomacy continues, with both sides publicly staking out red lines. Iran has signaled willingness to engage if the U.S. halts ceasefire violations and adheres to mutually agreed terms. Washington, however, has linked negotiations to concrete actions on Iran's nuclear program, sanctions, and regional behavior. A person familiar with the matter said talks have made little progress, with Tehran refusing to consider concessions under pressure.
Market and Regional Impact
Global oil markets have closely monitored the situation for potential supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude traded near $72 a barrel on Monday, reflecting continued emphasis on diplomacy over escalation. Analysts warn that a breakdown could trigger volatility and renewed calls for stronger regional security arrangements. The standoff also raises the chance of miscalculation in the Gulf, with potential spillovers to allied countries.
Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the date of Ghalibaf's remarks. They were made on Monday, not Sunday.