Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran will not resume negotiations with Washington while the United States continues violating their understanding. His remarks highlight the growing obstacles facing diplomatic efforts, while regional mediators continue seeking a path toward renewed talks.
Araghchi said Iran and the United States currently hold no direct negotiations between their officials. However, he confirmed that intermediaries continue exchanging messages between the two sides. According to Araghchi, Tehran does not consider those communications formal negotiations.
Several intermediary countries continue working to create conditions for renewed diplomatic engagement. Nevertheless, Araghchi said Iran expects Washington to end what Tehran considers violations of the existing memorandum before talks can restart.
He also demanded that the United States address and compensate for actions that Iran considers breaches of its commitments. Therefore, Tehran currently views restoring the understanding as a necessary step before reopening negotiations.
The dispute also directly affects the Strait of Hormuz, which remains strategically important for regional energy transportation. Iranian officials have linked the waterway’s reopening to Washington’s return to the agreement and commitment to avoid further violations.
At the same time, Iranian authorities say discussions with Oman are approaching an agreement concerning a new route for maritime traffic through the strait. However, Tehran stresses that Washington does not participate in those discussions with Muscat.
Iranian officials have warned that any agreement with Oman would not automatically reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Instead, Tehran appears to separate arrangements concerning maritime traffic from broader political negotiations with Washington.
The situation carries significant economic implications because the Strait of Hormuz connects major Gulf energy producers with international markets. Consequently, uncertainty surrounding maritime access could continue affecting shipping companies, energy traders and regional businesses.
For Iran, the current position places diplomatic conditions ahead of immediate negotiations with Washington. Meanwhile, intermediary countries may continue diplomatic efforts to bridge differences and establish conditions for renewed discussions.
Progress will likely depend on whether both governments can resolve disagreements surrounding their existing understanding. Until then, Iran appears unlikely to return to formal negotiations, while regional efforts remain focused on reducing tensions and maintaining maritime access.