Iran Reaffirms Diplomatic Approach Amid Standoff Over Strait of Hormuz

Iran declared on Sunday that it still supports diplomatic efforts to resolve its ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel. This statement follows US President Donald Trump's rejection of an Iranian plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end hostilities.

In a message shared on social media, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasised that Iran's terms for reopening the key shipping route remain unchanged. Araghchi stated, “Our conditions are clear, and any move toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz is contingent on these conditions being met.” He reiterated that “only a negotiated solution can get them out of this deadlock.”

Earlier in the week, Iran announced at the United Nations General Assembly in New York that it had presented a peace proposal, which was delivered to the United States through Qatari mediators. President Trump responded on Saturday, claiming he rejected this plan, asserting that Iran’s urgency for an agreement was linked to its deteriorating position in the conflict.

Despite Trump’s remarks, Araghchi said no official rejection had been communicated through mediators. “We are waiting for the mediators to convey the definitive views to us, and we will make a decision based on them,” he said. Discussions via mediators have been described by a US official as “positive and constructive.”

Iran has also engaged Saudi Arabia in talks concerning the strait, highlighting the broader regional implications of the seven-month conflict, which has disrupted oil shipments and impacted the global economy. According to Araghchi, the proposed agreement would allow for a seven-day period leading to the reopening of the strait and a pause in regional fighting if the US showed willingness to move forward.

Addressing the nuclear issue, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that Iran would not compromise on its nuclear programme, including the right to enrich uranium, even if a peace agreement is reached. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also indicated that Tehran is open to talks on its nuclear programme but opposes any coercion. “Iran is not seeking war, but will defend itself against pressure, threats and attacks,” Pezeshkian said in a televised interview, affirming commitment against developing nuclear weapons.

The conflict, which began in late February with US and Israeli military actions, has resulted in thousands of casualties and significant damage to Iran’s economy and military capabilities. Iran and its regional allies have responded with drone and missile attacks against US interests and partners throughout the Gulf.