Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Saturday that the country remains undecided about restarting direct talks with the United States aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict. While mediators from Qatar and Pakistan are maintaining contact with Iranian officials, Araghchi clarified this activity does not constitute active negotiations.
Araghchi attributed a recent escalation in violence to US actions following a memorandum of understanding signed in Pakistan in June. He indicated that Iran requires the establishment of a new diplomatic framework before substantive negotiations can proceed. The minister noted that Iran is working separately with Oman on technical arrangements for alternative shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, contingent on reaching a broader political settlement with the United States.
The dispute over the strategically vital waterway intensified following remarks by US President Trump, who suggested the Strait would be declared US territory following military action against Iran. Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi responded by asserting Iran’s sovereignty over the waterway. The disagreement comes as shipping incidents have continued in the region, with the UAE’s ADNOC reporting one of its vessels was attacked while transiting the strait.
With military operations failing to achieve stated objectives over six months of conflict, the US appears to be shifting toward economic pressure as its primary strategy. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced forthcoming economic measures against Iran, describing plans for unprecedented financial isolation combined with continued restrictions on maritime commerce. Recent steps have targeted currency exchange networks and shell companies believed to facilitate Iranian financial activities.
Analysts note this pressure campaign differs from historical US sanctions approaches. Former US Ambassador Marc Ginsberg characterized the situation as a high-stakes standoff where resolution remains uncertain, suggesting the current administration may ultimately concede before the Iranian government does.
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