US-Iran diplomatic tensions and internal scrutiny

Following the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi denied reports that two Iranian diplomats were deported by the United States. Arakchi dismissed claims cited by Axios—which alleged U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered the deportations—characterizing such allegations as a sign of “desperation and defeat” and a violation of U.S. obligations as a UN host nation.

Simultaneously, domestic political pressure has mounted against Arakchi in Iran. A request has been filed in the Iranian Parliament to interrogate the Foreign Minister following his meeting with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. Critics argue the meeting may have bypassed official coordination and policy-making institutions.

Despite this domestic scrutiny, Arakchi has maintained that Iran is ready for a diplomatic solution, asserting that negotiations based on justice are the only path to stability. While Iran has proposed plans involving the release of frozen assets and the cessation of hostilities, reports indicate that U.S. President Donald Trump has rejected explicit proposals, though indirect communication channels remain active.