Iran VP warns no deal likely if US prioritises ‘Israel First’ over ‘America First’

Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref has said the success of ongoing talks in Islamabad will depend on Washington’s approach, stressing that a constructive outcome is possible if US negotiators prioritise their own national interests.

In a statement shared on X, Aref suggested that an agreement benefiting both sides, and the wider global community, could be within reach if the United States focuses on what he described as an “America First” policy.

He warned, however, that progress would be unlikely if US representatives adopt positions aligned with “Israel First” priorities. In that case, Aref said Iran would continue to strengthen its defence posture, cautioning that such an outcome would lead to greater costs for the international community.

His remarks come as high-stakes negotiations between Iran and the United States unfold in Islamabad, with global attention fixed on whether the talks can ease tensions and pave the way for a broader understanding.