Kathmandu— Iran’s Foreign Ministry has invoked Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky to condemn United States foreign policy toward Tehran and the broader Middle East, alleging a foundation built on “lies.” The statement comes amid ongoing accusations between Washington and Tehran regarding regional conflict and limited progress towards renewed negotiations. Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei cited a passage from ‘The Brothers Karamazov’ on Saturday, arguing it accurately reflects the current state of US governance and its regional policies. This exchange occurs as disruptions to traffic through the Strait of Hormuz have impacted global oil prices and heightened tensions.

Dostoevsky Quote Highlights Accusations

Baghaei quoted Dostoevsky, stating, “The man who lies to himself and listens to his own lie comes to such a pass that he cannot distinguish the truth within him, or around him.” He suggested this passage “aptly describes” the situation surrounding US policy. The use of literary reference underscores Iran’s attempt to frame its critique beyond purely political terms.

Escalating Rhetoric and Economic Impact

US President Donald Trump recently claimed Iran was being “very badly defeated” and labeled the Islamic Republic as “a very evil country.” He also requested Americans accept higher gasoline prices, justifying it as a necessary cost to prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons. These price increases followed severe disruptions in traffic through the Strait of Hormuz after Iran restricted access in response to US-Israeli strikes and a subsequent naval blockade imposed by Washington on Iranian ports. The resulting escalation initially drove global oil prices up to $120 per barrel.

Stalled Negotiations and Competing Claims

Iran maintains it has not made any decision regarding resuming talks with the United States, stating communication is currently limited to intermediaries. Trump, however, asserts that Washington is “semi-negotiating” while simultaneously applying military and economic pressure. A key point of contention remains control over the Strait of Hormuz, with both Tehran and Washington making competing claims.

Nuclear Program Dispute

Trump has repeatedly stated preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons is a primary US objective in the conflict. However, Tehran insists its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes.

As of Saturday, no decision on resuming direct negotiations between Iran and the United States had been made, with both sides continuing to communicate through intermediaries.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.