Iranian Officials Condemn Trump's 'Big Lies' About Nuclear Program
As crucial diplomatic negotiations approach in Geneva, Iranian officials have launched a forceful condemnation of U.S. President Donald Trump, accusing him of disseminating what they describe as "big lies" regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions. The escalating rhetoric comes just days before representatives from both nations are scheduled to meet for a third round of talks mediated by Omani officials.
Trump's State of the Union Address Sparks Controversy
During his recent State of the Union address delivered in Washington, D.C., President Trump expressed a preference for diplomatic engagement with Tehran to resolve longstanding differences between the two countries. "We are in negotiations with them," Trump stated, while simultaneously questioning Iran's commitment to nuclear non-proliferation. "They want to make a deal, but we haven't heard those secret words: 'We will never have a nuclear weapon.'"
The American president further elaborated on what he characterized as Iran's ongoing efforts to rebuild its weapons program, which suffered significant damage following U.S. missile strikes targeting nuclear facilities last year. Trump warned that Iran has already developed missiles capable of threatening European nations and American bases overseas, with work allegedly underway on systems that could eventually reach the United States mainland.
Iranian Response: Accusations of Propaganda and Deception
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei responded forcefully to Trump's statements, posting on social media platform X that the American president's speech was filled with "big lies" about the Iranian government. "Professional liars are good at creating the 'illusion of truth'," Baqaei wrote, invoking historical propaganda techniques in his criticism of the Trump administration's approach.
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf presented the United States with what he framed as a clear choice between diplomacy and confrontation. "If you choose the table of diplomacy—a diplomacy in which the dignity of the Iranian nation and mutual interests are respected—we will also be at that table," Qalibaf declared through media outlets believed to have connections to Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard.
"But if you decide to repeat past experiences through deception, lies, flawed analysis and false information, and launch an attack in the midst of negotiations, you will undoubtedly taste the firm blow of the Iranian nation and the country's defensive forces," the parliamentary speaker warned, highlighting the high stakes surrounding the upcoming negotiations.
American Military Movements and Domestic Support
In recent days, the United States military has initiated movements of warships to the Middle East region, with President Trump threatening potential strikes against Iran should the diplomatic talks fail to produce meaningful progress. The American president also referenced recent domestic unrest in Iran, noting that approximately 32,000 people have reportedly been killed during government protests last month.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance publicly endorsed Trump's firm stance against Iranian nuclear development during an appearance on Fox News. "That would be the ultimate military objective if that's the route that he chose," Vance stated regarding potential action against Iran's nuclear facilities. "Most Americans understand that you can't let the craziest and the worst regime in the world have nuclear weapons."
Upcoming Geneva Negotiations
Diplomatic teams from both nations are scheduled to convene in Geneva on Thursday for what will represent the third round of negotiations between the longstanding adversaries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his delegation arrived via flight late Wednesday, where they are expected to engage with American officials led by special U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.
The talks, which will be facilitated by mediators from Oman, occur against a backdrop of heightened tensions and mutual accusations. Both sides have demonstrated a willingness to engage diplomatically while simultaneously preparing for potential escalation, creating a delicate balance that will test the negotiating skills of all parties involved in the Geneva discussions.
