Iran’s top diplomat Abbas Araghchi accused Washington of derailing Middle East peace talks during a high-stakes visit to Saint Petersburg on Monday.
Araghchi, speaking after failed negotiations, said US demands had exceeded reasonable limits, preventing progress despite what he described as tangible diplomatic momentum.
His remarks followed US President Donald Trump cancelling a planned envoy visit, dampening hopes for renewed dialogue brokered by Pakistan.
In meetings with Vladimir Putin, Russia pledged support for Iran, reinforcing what both sides called a strategic partnership amid intensifying geopolitical tensions.
Putin vowed Moscow would act in Iran’s interests to help secure peace, while Araghchi portrayed the conflict as proof of Iran’s resilience.
Yet beneath official rhetoric, economic distress in Tehran revealed a harsher reality, as citizens described collapsing livelihoods and mounting financial hardship.
Iran has restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting global energy flows and triggering sharp increases in oil and gas prices worldwide.
The United States responded with countermeasures targeting Iranian ports, escalating economic pressure while leaving fragile ceasefire conditions intact.
Diplomatic signals persisted as Iran reportedly sent written proposals through Pakistan, outlining red lines on nuclear policy and maritime control.
Meanwhile, Washington reviewed a proposal to reopen Hormuz, reflecting growing domestic pressure on Trump as fuel costs rise ahead of midterm elections.
Tensions also flared in Lebanon, where clashes resumed despite a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejected negotiations with Israel, prompting renewed Israeli strikes and warnings of prolonged regional conflict.
