The US naval blockade of Iranian ports has hindered efforts to restart peace talks between the two countries, mediated by Pakistan in Islamabad. Donald Trump's comments have been a key stumbling block, with Tehran unable to ignore his frequent social media utterances.
Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, warned that Trump's actions seek to turn the negotiating table into one of surrender or justify renewed warmongering. Iran has prepared to reveal new cards on the battlefield in response.
Iranian diplomats have pushed back against Trump's claims of Iranian humiliation and desperation, pointing out his contradictory remarks and underestimation of their resolve.
A day after closing the Strait of Hormuz, Iran left the impression that Trump had underestimated its resolve. The US president has made a series of contradictory statements, praising and burying Iran in the same breath.
Iran is more wary and determined to agree only if any deal includes a clear irreversible enforcement mechanism that requires Trump to stick with any agreement he seals.
The juxtaposition of Trump's contradictory sentiments has scrambled Iran's diplomatic radar, but so far, it has only made the country more cautious.