Foreign Ministry Spokesperson: Iran Has Not Agreed to Extension of Ceasefire

The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic, on Wednesday, April 15, dismissed speculation regarding the extension of the ceasefire with the United States. He stated that none of these claims can be confirmed and warned that the naval blockade of Iran could serve as a “prelude to a violation of the ceasefire.”

Speaking to reporters, Esmaeil Baghaei noted that consultations are ongoing through Pakistan and that Iran would “most likely” host a Pakistani delegation later today.

The spokesperson highlighted the core friction between Tehran and Washington, emphasizing:

“The nuclear issue is the most significant point of contention between Iran and the United States.”

He added, “One of the topics the American side continues to insist upon in a unilateral and one-sided manner that is unacceptable to us is the nuclear issue. This is one of the primary, if not the major, subjects that still requires negotiation.”

While the United States demands an end to Iran’s uranium enrichment, officials of the Islamic Republic maintain that it is their “inalienable right” and insist on its continuation.

This stance coincides with reports from Reuters and AFP, citing a senior U.S. official who stated that Washington has also not officially agreed to extend the ceasefire. The unnamed official remarked:

“Engagement between the United States and Iran to reach an agreement remains ongoing.”

The ceasefire between Iran and the U.S. began at dawn on April 8, following a 39-day war waged by the U.S. and Israel against Iran. It was originally scheduled to last for two weeks.

During this period, high-level talks took place in Islamabad, Pakistan, but failed to reach a resolution. The U.S. delegation was led by Vice President JD Vance, while the Iranian delegation was headed by Speaker of Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.

Despite reports suggesting Iran might halt uranium enrichment, Baghaei stressed that the Islamic Republic “must be able to continue enrichment based on its own needs.” He also leveled criticism at Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), claiming his reports have “repeatedly provided excuses” for the United States to exploit.