Iran on Monday accused Israel of undermining diplomatic efforts with the United States, warning that the latest exchanges of fire between the two countries threaten to deepen instability and further complicate already fragile negotiations between Tehran and Washington.

Speaking to reporters, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said ongoing hostilities would only intensify what he described as an already “chaotic diplomatic process.” He noted that communications between Iran and the United States are continuing, but said they are taking place under conditions of “extreme suspicion.”

Baghaei argued that Israel’s military activities in Lebanon, regardless of whether they were carried out with American approval, were intended to sabotage diplomatic initiatives and prevent progress toward a political resolution.

The Iranian spokesman further asserted that the United States bears responsibility for maintaining the ceasefire reached on April 8 and should be held accountable for any violations, including military actions attributed to Israel. He also cautioned that the international community should be concerned about the possibility of the conflict expanding across the region.

“The United States bears direct responsibility for any action the Zionist regime (Israel) takes in relation to violating regional peace and security against Iran,” ⁠Baghaei said.

According to Baghaei, Sunday’s visit to Tehran by Pakistan’s interior minister formed part of ongoing efforts to facilitate indirect communications between Iranian and American officials.

Turning to nuclear issues, Baghaei said Iran would take action in response to any measure adopted against it during this week’s meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Board of Governors.

He also launched a sharp attack on IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, accusing him of ignoring realities on the ground and allowing political bias to influence his positions. Baghaei argued that such conduct has damaged the credibility and impartiality of the U.N. nuclear watchdog.