Iran rejects US envoys in mediation talks, questions their credibility

Iran has expressed strong reservations about key US-linked figures involved in mediation efforts, telling intermediaries it does not trust envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and does not want them involved in future negotiations.

According to a diplomatic source cited in discussions held in Ankara, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi conveyed Tehran’s position during contacts with Turkish officials, including Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, as part of ongoing mediation efforts.

The source said Iran considers the two envoys unreliable interlocutors, describing previous engagements with them as “not constructive,” and signalling a preference for alternative channels in any future diplomatic process.

Tehran reportedly indicated that it would favour indirect communication through third parties rather than engaging with figures it does not trust, as part of efforts to demonstrate seriousness in any path toward de-escalation.

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These exchanges come within the framework of a broader Turkish-Egyptian mediation initiative, supported by regional actors including Saudi Arabia, aimed at preventing further escalation of the conflict and limiting its impact on energy security and regional stability.

The proposed initiative includes an immediate temporary ceasefire, followed by negotiations potentially hosted in Istanbul or Muscat, with no preconditions and a flexible agenda.

According to sources, the discussions could include security guarantees for Iran, as well as the possibility of addressing compensation through mechanisms such as expanded oil exports and the release of frozen Iranian assets.

The mediation effort reflects growing regional concern over the risk of prolonged conflict, particularly its potential to disrupt energy supplies and deepen instability across the Middle East.

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