Esmail Baghaei, spokesman for Iran’s foreign ministry, has issued a pointed and cryptic message on social media.………
Baghaei posted on X just before the leaders met for a second round of talks: “He who betrays in secret shall be exposed in public,” which was widely taken as a warning, though he didn’t name anyone specifically.
Analysts are wondering if the message was meant for those involved in secret talks about Iran’s regional role and the continuing conflict in the Middle East because of how it came at a time when Washington and Beijing were getting more involved diplomatically.
Although Iranian officials have not provided any clarification regarding the comment, it is worth noting that Iran has become an important subject in the discussions between Trump and Xi, amid wider concerns such as maritime tensions, energy stability, and global security.
Reportedly, the meeting was a platform for both capitals to stress the need of de-escalating the situation in the Middle East, with a focus on the current conflict and its effects on international maritime lanes, particularly the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Separately released during the negotiations, a statement from China’s foreign ministry demanded an early end to the fighting and emphasised that the crisis “should never have happened,” reiterating Beijing’s long-standing stance in favour of diplomatic dialogue over armed combat.
This statement is another example of China’s persistent posture as peacemaker in international disputes, particularly those involving areas that significantly impact its energy and economic interests.
Chinese officials reaffirmed their opposition to Iran gaining nuclear weapons, according to Trump, who detailed the discussions following the initial meetings.
He went on to say that Beijing has already said it wouldn’t provide Tehran military hardware, which, if true, would show that the two superpowers are in agreement on the need to avoid nuclear proliferation…....…
