Iran has blamed “excessive demands” and a “lack of political will” on the part of the United States for the failure of the Islamabad talks, even as it signalled readiness to continue negotiations within the framework of international law during a telephonic conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron.According to official accounts of the call, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that Tehran had engaged in the Islamabad negotiations with “seriousness and goodwill” and that expert-level understandings had been reached between the sides. However, he asserted that the agreement could not be finalised due to the “excessive ambition” and lack of political will among senior US officials.“We have clearly outlined the terms for a ceasefire and remain committed to them. America’s excessive demands became an obstacle to reaching an agreement,” Pezeshkian told Macron, while reiterating that Iran remained open to dialogue.The Iranian President emphasised that any future engagement with Washington would take place strictly within internationally accepted legal frameworks. “The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to continue talks solely within the framework of international laws and regulations, with the aim of protecting the rights of the Iranian people,” he said, calling on Europe to play a more constructive role in encouraging adherence to these principles.During the conversation, Pezeshkian also raised concerns over rising tensions in West Asia, particularly the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Referring to recent remarks by the US President, he warned that any threat to the security of the vital shipping route would have far-reaching consequences for global trade.“The Islamic Republic of Iran has always sought to ensure sustainable security for the passage of ships through this strategic corridor. Any disruption will have widespread global implications,” he said, adding that Iran was prepared to respond to any scenario in line with its national interests.On the issue of ceasefire commitments, Pezeshkian maintained that Iran had adhered to its obligations and accused the other side of failing to honour initial understandings. He said Tehran’s conditions had been clearly communicated and emphasised the need for strict implementation of agreements.Addressing the nuclear issue, the Iranian President said Iran’s position remained aligned with previously agreed frameworks with European countries. He reiterated that Tehran had not acted outside international regulations and remained open to continuing negotiations within the same structure.Pezeshkian also criticised approaches based on “threats, pressure and military action”, telling Macron that such strategies only deepen crises rather than resolve them. “Diplomacy remains the preferred path,” he said, while asserting that Iran would safeguard its national dignity and interests.Macron, who has been in consultation with US leadership, underlined the need to address broader regional concerns, including Lebanon, within the ceasefire framework, and shared his views on the Iranian nuclear issue and developments related to the legal regime of the Strait of Hormuz.