Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran remains open to what he described as “real diplomacy”, while warning that the country is fully prepared to confront any new attack by the United States, even if it leads to an “apocalyptic war”.
Araghchi’s comments come amid renewed tensions between Iran and the US over the Strait of Hormuz and efforts to end the ongoing conflict.
US President Donald Trump has said he expects further talks with Iran this week, while maintaining that Washington will achieve its objectives in the war “very soon”.
Meanwhile, a senior Iranian military official, Admiral Habibollah Sayyari, said Iran has “complete control” of the Strait of Hormuz despite what he called statements from its adversaries.
Sayyari said Iranian naval forces control areas east and north of the strategic waterway, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy controls the strait, the Persian Gulf and areas to its west.
The US has rejected Iran’s proposal for a seven-day ceasefire that would allow the Strait of Hormuz to reopen to maritime trade, prolonging the diplomatic deadlock.
The tensions have also pushed oil prices higher. Brent crude rose 2.8 percent to $107.26 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate increased 1.8 percent to $94.07.
Elsewhere, Britain’s Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said it would be “very unwise” to speculate about possible Iranian involvement after five people were arrested near RAF Fairford, a UK airbase used by US military aircraft involved in the Iran conflict. The suspects have not been charged.
In Europe, the Netherlands criticised Israel’s decision to revoke the diplomatic accreditation of Dutch officials based in the occupied West Bank, saying it regretted the move and was considering its response.
The developments come as regional tensions continue to affect diplomacy, energy markets and international shipping.
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