Iran says US making ‘maximalist and irrational’ demands: Iranian media

Iran said Thursday that Washington’s demands were “maximalist and irrational” and denied negotiations were taking place on a ceasefire to stop the war in the Middle East, according to Iranian media.

“Messages have been received through intermediaries, including Pakistan, but there is no direct negotiation with the US,” said Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, quoted by the ISNA news agency.

He accused Washington of making “maximalist and irrational” demands, and said in comments carried on state television that Iran was ready for any attack, including an invasion by ground forces.