In Pride And Prejudice-Coded ‘Large Civilisation’ Swipe, Iran Tells US: No Talks Under Force

Last Updated:April 21, 2026, 12:11 IST

The United States has expressed confidence that discussions with Iran will go ahead in Pakistan. However, Tehran has sent mixed signals.

As another round of possible talks between the United States and Iran draws closer, Tehran has sent a pointed message to Washington. The remarks come at a time when both sides are struggling to overcome differences and reach a deal to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, made it clear that his country would not enter negotiations under pressure. His statement reflected growing tension as the ceasefire deadline approaches.

‘No talks under threat’

In a message that echoed the opening line of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Moghadam wrote, “It’s a truth universally acknowledged that a single country in possession of a large civilisation will not negotiate under threat and force."

He described this as a fundamental Islamic and theological principle, adding that the United States should understand this position. The comment was widely seen as a direct response to Washington’s recent warnings.

Trump’s warning

The statement came just hours after Donald Trump warned that if the fragile two-week ceasefire expires without progress, the situation could quickly worsen. He said that if no agreement is reached by Tuesday, “then lots of bombs start going off."

The warning has increased pressure on both sides, as the deadline for the ceasefire approaches and uncertainty continues over whether talks will take place.

Uncertainty over talks in Pakistan

The United States has expressed confidence that discussions with Iran will go ahead in Pakistan. However, Tehran has sent mixed signals, at one point threatening to skip the meeting after the US seized an Iranian-flagged vessel near the Strait of Hormuz.

A senior Iranian official told Reuters that the country is considering participation but has not made a final decision. The official said Tehran is “positively reviewing" the possibility of joining the talks, though significant obstacles remain.

Conflicting priorities

Both sides are entering the talks with different goals. The United States wants an agreement that would prevent further increases in oil prices and avoid shocks to global financial markets. At the same time, Washington has insisted that Iran must not be allowed to develop the capability to produce a nuclear weapon.

Iran, on the other hand, is looking to use its control over the Strait of Hormuz as leverage. Tehran hopes to secure a deal that would prevent a return to war and lead to relief from sanctions, while also ensuring that its nuclear programme is not restricted.

Next US-Iran talks

Despite the tensions, there are indications that talks could still move forward. A Pakistani source involved in the discussions said there is growing momentum for negotiations to resume on Wednesday.

The same source suggested that President Trump could take part in the talks either in person or virtually if an agreement is close to being finalised.

The situation remains uncertain as both countries weigh their options. Iran’s message makes it clear that it does not want to be seen as negotiating under pressure, while the United States continues to push for a deal within a tight timeline.

With the ceasefire nearing its end, the coming days are likely to be crucial in deciding whether talks can proceed and whether a deal can be reached between Iran and US, bringing an end to the conflict.

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