IRGC commander insists on hardline US talks stance

IRGC Commander Ahmad Vahidi has publicly insisted on a hardline negotiating stance toward the United States, reinforcing internal divisions within Iran's political establishment over the ongoing talks. This statement comes amid a backdrop of skepticism from Gulf nations and warnings from Iranian officials about the potential for conflict. The hardline position aligns with previous rejections of negotiations under threat by other Iranian figures, such as the ambassador to Pakistan and Grand Ayatollah Jawadi Amoli. The development highlights the challenges facing diplomacy as the ceasefire between the US and Iran nears its expiration, with President Trump having expressed doubt about an extension.