Iran has struck a careful balance between diplomacy and defiance ahead of a possible second round of talks with the United States. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said Tehran is not seeking war and remains open to negotiations - but made it clear that any attempt to impose terms or force a surrender will fail. The statement comes amid renewed efforts to revive dialogue after the first round of talks collapsed. However, key sticking points remain unresolved, including Iran's uranium enrichment programme, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, and broader regional tensions. Both sides continue to hold firm positions, even as backchannel diplomacy persists. The messaging from Tehran underscores a familiar strategy - engagement without concession - raising questions about whether the next round of talks can bridge deep divides or simply prolong the standoff.