Iran said it will not allow the United States to determine the timing of either peace or war. The position emerged from remarks by the Foreign Ministry spokesperson at the country’s weekly press conference on July 28. Tehran also said it is fully prepared for any future conflict situation.

Iran’s army chief delivered a similar warning, saying that if the United States launches any attack, Iran’s response would be more destructive than before. At the same time, Iran has not completely closed the door to diplomacy, presenting a position that combines readiness for confrontation with limited openness to talks.

The Iranian government said it has not requested any formal meeting with the United States. However, indirect communication continues through mediation by Qatar, Pakistan and other countries in the region. Iran says the path to negotiations is neither fully open nor fully closed, but remains partially open. Its senior leadership is seeking what the report describes as a cautious and pragmatic position while maintaining deep distrust over improving relations with Washington.