DUBAI: Iran has made it clear that any fresh round of negotiations with the United States will hinge on one key step – lifting of the ongoing US naval blockade, according to its envoy at the United Nations.
The demand comes at a time when a fragile ceasefire remains under strain in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route. While diplomatic channels appear open, Tehran’s insistence on the blockade issue signals how deep mistrust continues to define the standoff between the two sides.
Citing an interview with Rudlaw News Network at the UN Headquarters, Tasnim News Agency mentioned Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani as saying that Washington must first end what he described as repeated violations of the ceasefire before any talks can move forward.
“The naval blockade of the United States, it is a violation of the ceasefire. And we told them that they should break this blockade. We have received some signs that they are ready to break it. And as soon as they break this blockade, I think that the next round of the negotiation will take place in Istanbul. Listen to them, we have not initiated the military aggression. They initiated the war against us, and we are ready. If they want to sit at the table and discuss and find a political solution, they will find us ready. If they want to go to the war, in this case, also Iran is ready for that,” Iravani said.
The remarks indicate that although backchannel communication may still be active, the naval blockade remains the primary barrier preventing formal diplomatic engagement. Tehran’s position underscores that any movement towards talks is contingent on immediate de-escalation by Washington.
The statement also comes against the backdrop of a ceasefire extension announced by US President Donald Trump late Wednesday, aimed at creating space for diplomacy.
Earlier, Trump suggested that Iran may be projecting defiance publicly while privately seeking relief from economic pressure caused by restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz.
“Iran doesn’t want the Strait of Hormuz closed; they want it open so they can make USD 500 million a day (which is, therefore, what they are losing if it is closed!)” he posted.
According to Trump, Tehran’s rhetoric on the waterway is aimed more at domestic and political audiences than its actual economic needs.
Even as diplomatic messaging continues, tensions on the ground remain high. On Wednesday, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported that a container vessel was attacked by a gunboat linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
The incident occurred about 15 nautical miles northeast of Oman. The ship’s master said the vessel was approached without any warning communication before being fired upon. While the bridge sustained significant damage, there were no reports of fire or environmental impact.
The Strait of Hormuz continues to be the focal point of the crisis, given its importance as a key transit route for global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. If the situation drags on, it could start hitting global energy supplies and shipping routes in a big way.
Right now, both sides are talking and posturing at the same time, so while negotiations aren’t off the table, getting there won’t be straightforward.
Agencies
No talks till blockade ends: Iran draws hard line as ceasefire tensions simmer in Hormuz
