Swapna Kumbar , Bengaluru - Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the U.S. had committed “major violations” of a memorandum of understanding, and warned that “the era of bullying and extortion is over”. His comments came after U.S. retaliatory strikes on Iran and renewed escalation across the Gulf.

Ghalibaf argued that Washington had breached the terms of the framework by continuing pressure on Iran, including strikes, sanctions and what Tehran views as violations tied to the Strait of Hormuz and wider regional security. He said the ceasefire and negotiations had become “unreasonable” because the U.S. had already undermined the basis for talks before they could move forward.

Iran’s response has been framed as a warning that any further attacks will be met with a “crushing response,” while Iranian officials also accused the U.S. of breaking promises and acting in bad faith. The rhetoric signals that the diplomatic track is now in serious danger, especially after repeated strikes and counterstrikes have deepened mistrust between the two sides.

The statement from Tehran suggests Iran is preparing for a harder line rather than compromise. If the current pattern of strikes continues, the ceasefire framework could unravel completely, pushing the conflict into a more dangerous phase.