U.S. Special Envoy: The Iranian Government's Words Are Always at Odds with Its Actions

The U.S. Special Envoy for Yemen stated that "the Iranian government's words are always at odds with its actions" and added that the United Nations General Assembly in New York presents an opportunity for the Islamic Republic to present a more constructive position and a better image to the international community. Timothy Lenderking, in an exclusive interview with Al-Hurra television regarding recent statements by Masoud Pezeshkian, the head of the fourteenth government of the Islamic Republic, and Abbas Araghchi, his foreign minister, about resuming nuclear negotiations, said that the Iranian government’s statements are always contradictory to its actions. He added, "This is a great opportunity for the Middle East in this very difficult situation... and the Iranians can have a different face and position and cooperate with us to reduce these tensions and conflicts." Lenderking commented on the continued supply of weapons and military equipment from the Islamic Republic to the Houthi rebels in Yemen, stating that this violates United Nations Security Council resolutions. He further noted that the United States is very interested in the Iranian officials playing a more constructive role, refraining from arson and fueling the fire, and supporting peace efforts. In response to Al-Hurra's question about whether the United States is ready for dialogue with Iranian officials regarding Yemen, the nuclear program, and other contentious issues, he said, "I am not sure about what the Iranians have said." Lenderking added, however, that regarding Yemen, "We would welcome a better position from Iran, a less aggressive stance, and a cessation of support and encouragement for the Houthis to carry out attacks. Let’s move towards reducing tensions. This is really what we want to see."