Pakistan, Oct. 22 -- Iran has ruled out a return to nuclear talks with the United States, citing what it calls "unreasonable demands." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi confirmed on Wednesday that Tehran would not resume negotiations under current conditions. He said the US made excessive requests during past talks, which forced Iran to step away. Negotiations in New York and earlier indirect discussions were also suspended due to a lack of progress. Tensions have remained high since the June airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites by the US and Israel.

Araqchi emphasized that diplomacy remains Iran's preferred path, but only if mutual respect is guaranteed. He said any future talks must be based on equal footing and shared interests. A...