Iran's Araghchi on CBS: 'We Never Asked for a Ceasefire, No Reason to Negotiate'

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi appeared on CBS Face the Nation on March 15 and stated categorically: 'We never asked for a ceasefire, and we have never asked even for negotiation. We are ready to defend ourselves as long as it takes.' Iran reiterated it would only accept cessation of hostilities if the US and Israel provide guarantees of no future attacks and pay reparations — conditions the Trump administration has not acknowledged. Iran cited two prior rounds of nuclear negotiations that collapsed after US action as evidence of US bad faith. Separately, Trump told reporters Iran was 'ready to make a deal' but that its terms were 'not good enough yet.' Analysts see a possible disconnect between Iran's diplomatic and military command.