Iran: Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned that Tehran would respond more forcefully to any renewed military confrontation, while insisting that negotiations remain the only way to end the ongoing conflict with the United States. The warning comes as diplomatic efforts remain stalled over the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Araghchi made the remarks on Sunday while addressing foreign ambassadors and representatives of international organisations in Tehran. He said Iran remained prepared for diplomacy but would strengthen its response if its adversaries again chose military action.
What is blocking a diplomatic agreement between Iran and the US?
The main dispute centres on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy shipments. Tehran has linked the reopening of the waterway to several conditions, including a ceasefire, the lifting of sanctions on its oil sector, the unfreezing of Iranian assets and an end to the US naval blockade.
Iranian officials said Washington had responded to Tehran’s proposal through intermediaries and that the government was reviewing the response. Tehran has also said it is preparing for other possible scenarios if diplomacy fails.
Araghchi said Iran’s proposal includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz within seven days if the conditions are accepted.
What is the latest situation around the Strait of Hormuz?
Tensions around the waterway remain high as reports of incidents involving commercial vessels continue. The dispute has also affected international energy markets and shipping through one of the world’s key oil and gas routes.
The United States has maintained economic and maritime pressure on Iran while increasing its military presence in the region. Washington has rejected Tehran’s conditions but has left open the possibility of further negotiations.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad resigned for what officials described as personal reasons. President Masoud Pezeshkian accepted the resignation and appointed National Iranian Oil Company chief Hamid Bovard as acting oil minister.
The resignation comes as Iran’s energy sector faces pressure from sanctions, the conflict and restrictions affecting its oil exports.