Iran open to diplomacy but demands end to US pressure

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has indicated that the country remains open to diplomatic solutions, but only if the United States ceases its "pressure campaign." Six months into a conflict that has significantly destabilized the Middle East, Araghchi posted on X that diplomacy can resume if Washington acknowledges that "pressure doesn't work."

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Putting diplomacy back on track isn’t impossible. It hinges on the US understanding of one simple fact: pressure doesn’t work.

Mediated diplomatic efforts, involving countries like Pakistan and Qatar, have struggled to bring an end to the war, which began in late February. Although a ceasefire was established in April and a memorandum of understanding for a peace deal was signed in June, no final agreement has materialized. The US has since intensified its economic measures against Tehran, declaring "economic warfare."

In a recent diplomatic push, Araghchi met with his Qatari counterpart to discuss the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran closed at the start of the conflict. This meeting followed a week of intensive talks with Oman and Pakistan. Meanwhile, a US naval counterblockade is reportedly impacting fuel supplies in Iran, compounding domestic production shortfalls.

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The US should build trust, speak respectfully, acknowledge our rights and uphold commitments.

Iranian lawmaker Esmail Kowsari reiterated the nation's stance, stating that if the US fails to uphold its commitments under the June memorandum, the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed, and the US should prepare for further offensive actions. Despite US attempts to cripple Iran economically, Tehran has a history of enduring sanctions, leading some experts to question the extent of additional pressure the US can exert. Analysts suggest that US efforts to isolate Iran would require cooperation from China, a key trading partner that has defended its ties with Tehran.

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If the memorandum was not implemented and the US “does not respect its commitments, not only will the Strait of Hormuz remain closed, but the United States must be ready for our offensive actions and we will seek them in the most distant places.