Iran’s negotiating stance with the United States is hardening, with Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf framing the talks in absolute terms. Ghalibaf, who is leading Tehran’s engagement, has described the situation as a binary choice between resistance and surrender, signalling that Iran is unlikely to compromise on core issues. He has also blurred the line between diplomacy and conflict, stating that negotiations and battlefield decisions are effectively the same. According to his remarks, the ceasefire followed sustained pressure from Iran, which he claims forced the United States and Israel to step back after weeks of fighting. Ghalibaf further emphasised Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz, underlining the strategic leverage Tehran holds in ongoing negotiations. The statements highlight a negotiating approach rooted in strength and deterrence, raising questions about how much room remains for compromise in the current talks.