Tehran's top diplomat, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, has categorically denied claims of backchannel communications with Steve Witkoff, a close advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump. The denial comes amid heightened Middle East tensions, following U.S.-backed strikes on Iranian targets that have rattled global oil markets.

Reports from U.S. media outlets suggested Witkoff and Araghchi had recently exchanged messages—the first such contact since military actions intensified over two weeks ago. These whispers fueled speculation of quiet diplomatic efforts to de-escalate, even as American and Israeli operations continued, which Iran deems unlawful aggression. Araghchi took to X (formerly Twitter) to set the record straight, clarifying that any prior exchanges happened well before the strikes. He accused the stories of being deliberate misinformation designed to unsettle oil traders and unsettle public sentiment.

The Iranian minister didn't stop at denial. He lambasted U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's recent "no prisoners" directive as a sign of "moral bankruptcy," arguing it violates international standards like the Hague Conventions and could invite legal repercussions for those involved. This latest rebuttal aligns with Iran's consistent messaging: no negotiations while under attack. It echoes prior dismissals of U.S. outreach, signaling a firm stance against talks under duress.

Oil prices spiked 3% last week on similar unconfirmed reports, underscoring how fragile rumors can sway markets in this volatile region. While backchannels have thawed crises before—like in past nuclear negotiations—Araghchi's firm rejection points to a deepening impasse. U.S. officials have offered no comment, leaving the door ajar for more posturing or a true breakdown in dialogue.