Residents of Tehran expressed a mix of disappointment and resolve on Sunday following the collapse of recent negotiations between Iran and the United States, with many blaming Washington’s demands for the diplomatic setback.
Speaking outside a newsstand in the capital, 43-year-old Farhad Simia said he had hoped the talks would help end hostilities but still supported Iran’s position. “I oppose war. I believe negotiation is the preferable route,” he said, attributing the failure of the talks to what he described as the United States’ “inappropriate demands.”
Another resident, Mehdi Hosseini, also 43, said he remained optimistic despite the outcome. He argued that Iran’s negotiating team preserved key national interests while refusing to make concessions he viewed as unacceptable.
Across Tehran, large national flags and billboards highlighting the country’s leadership and military achievements were prominently displayed. One mural depicted Iranian soldiers pulling miniature U.S. military aircraft and warships from the sea in a fishing net, alongside the message: “The Strait Remains Closed.”
Hamid Haghi, 55, blamed what he called “America’s overreach” for the breakdown in talks, saying the United States sought access to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. He insisted Iran was capable of managing the waterway independently.
Similarly, 60-year-old Mohammad Bagher said Iran should maintain a firm stance, while stressing that the country preferred diplomacy if its interests were respected. “We are a nation that values dialogue and negotiation as long as our interests are honored. We have never pursued war,” he said, adding that Iranians would remain committed to defending their territory.