Iran has flatly denied any current negotiations with the United States, even as a fragile pause in hostilities holds for a second day. The statement from Tehran's foreign ministry directly contradicts rumors that diplomatic backchannels have reopened following a 13-day exchange of fire. Main Developments Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei told reporters Monday that mediators occasionally relay American messages about regional events, but "at present, we are not engaged in any negotiations with the United States." He dismissed claims that Iran had requested talks as "fabrications" circulated by the other side. Fighting between the two nations halted early Saturday after 13 consecutive days of exchanges of fire. That pause came after diplomatic efforts collapsed earlier this month over an impasse concerning the Strait of Hormuz. Read also: China's June Gold Imports via Hong Kong Surge Year-on-Year, Dip Monthly Baqaei accused Washington of behaving like "a mafia gang that adheres to no rules or laws," adding that as long as such conduct continues, "we cannot be hopeful about the emergence of a reasonable process." He stressed that recent talks with Oman over managing the strait are a bilateral matter with "no connection with the United States." Background Hostilities resumed between Iran and the United States earlier this month after negotiations collapsed over control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. The waterway saw 13 days of active exchanges of fire before both sides pulled back on Saturday. Iran insists on retaining authority over the strait's management, including collecting service fees, while keeping Oman involved as a coastal state partner. The Islamic Republic's Revolutionary Guards have turned back multiple vessels in recent days — including six on Monday alone — that tried to transit outside the route Tehran designates. Why It Matters The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply, giving Iran significant leverage over global energy markets. Tehran's assertion that the waterway "remains closed" — combined with its rejection of US negotiations — raises the risk of renewed military confrontation. Washington's inability to restart talks, despite a pause in active fighting, suggests both sides remain far apart on fundamental issues. The impasse could disrupt oil shipments, drive up energy prices, and destabilize an already volatile Middle East. What's Next Iran and Oman continue bilateral discussions on the strait's administration, with Baqaei confirming those talks are ongoing. No timeline has been given for when the waterway might reopen to normal traffic. The current ceasefire has no formal expiration date, but neither side has signaled willingness to de-escalate further through direct diplomacy. Mediators may continue to carry messages between Tehran and Washington, but Iran's public stance suggests no breakthrough is imminent.