Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has described recent efforts by the United States to open a dialogue with Tehran as a “positive step,” even as he clarified that no immediate meetings between the two sides are planned. The comments came as an Iranian delegation arrived in Doha, where Qatari mediators are working to negotiate a revival of the ceasefire between the two nations.
Conditions for Strait of Hormuz Access
Araghchi told Al Jazeera on Saturday that Tehran has studied a letter sent by US Vice President JD Vance during high-level meetings. The foreign minister outlined specific conditions that must be met before Iran would agree to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane. He stated that fulfilling these conditions would pave the way for renewed negotiations with Washington.
The Iranian leader emphasized that while the attempt to open a door to dialogue is welcome, Washington must not use the letter to “stir up discord.” He warned that doing so would be another mistake in a series of previous errors by the US administration.
When asked about reports suggesting imminent meetings between Iranian and US officials, Araghchi dismissed them as “media speculation.” He said there is no need for direct meetings at this stage, noting that mediators are continuing consultations regarding Tehran’s clear conditions. Whether direct or indirect talks occur will depend entirely on whether these conditions are met.
Mediation Progress and Sanctions Demands
Qatari and Pakistani mediators are currently reviewing proposals concerning the nuclear dossier as part of a second phase of negotiations. Araghchi noted that talks with Qatari officials have accelerated the timeline for implementing Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. While Qatar had initially proposed a five-day implementation period, Araghchi said a new proposal has been reached that reduces this period to two days.
The conditions set by Tehran include the lifting of sanctions imposed following the Islamabad memorandum and a reduction of US military forces in the region. Additionally, Iran demands the restoration of oil waivers and the release of all frozen funds, including those held in Qatar. Araghchi also mentioned that Iran seeks recognition of specific shipping routes through the strait that it had previously discussed with Oman, alongside the closure of other routes.
Despite the diplomatic overtures, Araghchi made it clear that Iran remains on high alert. He stated that the country does not rule out the possibility of an attack against Iran. To prepare for any scenario, he said Iran has upgraded its weaponry, addressed its vulnerabilities, and tested new arms. He confirmed that Iranian forces are at the highest level of readiness.
Source: Al Jazeera
