WANA (May 12) – While some unofficial sources claimed that Iran’s Foreign Minister had gifted a valuable silk carpet to Steve Witkoff during recent negotiations, the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has firmly denied the allegation.

 

The initial report stated that Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, presented a handwoven Tabrizi carpet to Witkoff during the latest round of talks as a gesture of goodwill from the Islamic Republic. However, “Ranjbaran,” an advisor to the Foreign Minister, dismissed the report, calling it part of a series of “worn-out fabrications.” In comments echoed by the media, he stated: “Iran has always demonstrated goodwill in negotiations and has no need for such gestures to prove it.”

 

At a time when the negotiation atmosphere is tense and ambiguous, the release of such stories resembles psychological operations more than actual news.

 

The official denial by the Foreign Ministry advisor highlights that Iran prefers to convey messages of goodwill through formal diplomatic channels, not through side stories or gifts. The Ministry also warned against the spread of unverified reports in such media environments.

 

The fourth round of indirect negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States was held yesterday (May 11, 2025) in Muscat, the capital of Oman, and lasted for three hours.

 

At the conclusion of this round, Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, wrote on X: “Difficult but constructive talks were held, helping both sides better understand each other’s positions and explore reasonable, realistic ways to resolve disputes. The time and location of the next round will be announced by the Omani coordinator.”