According to Izadi, negotiations in a situation where, in his words, "so many catastrophes and the martyrdom of the leader" have occurred could be interpreted by the American side as a sign to escalate pressure.

He claimed that entering talks at a "higher level" might create the impression that it is possible to inflict further blows.

The remarks come as the published text does not provide further details about the timing, context, or the parties being referred to.