In a post on X, Qalibaf accused Donald Trump of attempting to turn diplomacy into a “table of surrender,” adding that Tehran was instead preparing “to reveal new cards on the battlefield.”His remarks come as a two-week ceasefire in a conflict that has killed thousands and disrupted global markets, particularly energy supplies, is set to lapse later this week.

The truce has come under strain following a U.S. move to seize an Iranian cargo vessel accused of violating a maritime blockade, prompting Tehran to warn of retaliation.

Iran has consistently rejected negotiations conducted under coercion, while Washington has maintained pressure through military and economic measures as part of its broader strategy toward Tehran.

According to the report, some officials in the White House view Ghalibaf as a pragmatic figure who could engage in negotiations with Washington as the conflict with Iran enters a new phase.

The report said discussions remain preliminary and are being conducted quietly within the administration. Ghalibaf is seen by certain policymakers as a figure capable of navigating Iran’s political structure while maintaining enough authority to enter into talks with the United States.

There was no immediate comment from the White House on the report.Context of rising tensionsThe deliberations come amid escalating hostilities between the United States and Iran, including ongoing military exchanges and heightened regional instability.

The conflict has drawn in multiple actors across the Middle East, increasing the risk of broader escalation.Uncertainty over Tehran’s stanceIt remains unclear how such considerations would be received in Tehran.

Iranian officials have publicly rejected claims of engagement with Washington, with Ghalibaf himself recently denying that any negotiations with the United States have taken place.