Iranian President Calls for Diplomatic Resolution
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly called for an end to what he terms the nation's state of 'neither war nor peace' with the United States. His remarks come as diplomatic efforts intensify to reach an agreement that could potentially de-escalate tensions and resolve the ongoing conflict. Pezeshkian asserted on Saturday that Iran currently holds a position of strength, making it an opportune moment for a lasting accord with the U.S.
The president's statements are particularly significant given the backdrop of negotiations between Iran and Oman concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This vital maritime passage, historically responsible for approximately one-fifth of global oil shipments, has been under a de facto blockade by Tehran since February 28, following the commencement of a conflict between the U.S. and Israel against Iran, which has tragically resulted in over 3,400 fatalities.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated on Sunday that discussions with Oman regarding the transit and management of the strait are nearing their conclusion. However, he emphasized that the reopening of Hormuz is contingent upon additional conditions and compensation for alleged violations of a June Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the U.S. Araghchi clarified that while Iran is not directly negotiating with the U.S., messages are being exchanged through intermediaries.
Pezeshkian's Stance on Negotiations
President Pezeshkian views the current period as ideal for achieving an agreement. He highlighted the prevailing 'cohesion, strength and unity' within Iran, stating that the nation is perceived as victorious and powerful in the ongoing conflict. He also suggested that a dedicated channel should have been established earlier to address ceasefire violations, rather than resorting to conflict. Pezeshkian expressed hope that ongoing negotiations in Oman would provide a resolution to the current stalemate.
Reports suggest that significant progress has been made in recent weeks between Iran and Oman towards an arrangement where Iran would oversee vessels entering the Gulf, while Oman would manage outbound traffic. Araghchi confirmed on Saturday that talks are focused on establishing a 'temporary route' through the Strait of Hormuz, with an agreement reportedly close. Furthermore, Tehran announced on Thursday that it had agreed upon coordinates for new shipping routes with Oman. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson, Hossein Mohebbi, reiterated on Saturday that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is dependent on Washington accepting Iran's conditions.
Interpreting Iran's Diplomatic Signals
According to Iran expert Negar Mortazavi, President Pezeshkian's pronouncements convey a dual message. One message is directed at Iran's domestic political factions, aiming to bolster the position of those advocating for diplomatic engagement. Mortazavi, a senior fellow at the Center for International Policy, noted that Pezeshkian's declaration lends presidential weight to diplomacy, countering hardline factions who have historically opposed negotiations. The other message is for Washington, signaling Iran's continued willingness to negotiate despite perceived U.S. violations of the MoU.
Mortazavi believes Pezeshkian's public stance aims to remove ambiguity, projecting an image of Iran being prepared for negotiations and seeking an end to the current 'neither war nor peace' situation. This also serves to counter narratives, allegedly promoted by the U.S. and Israel, suggesting a lack of unity or coherence within Iran's leadership.
Iran's Conditions for Resolution
The Supreme National Security Council of Iran recently outlined new conditions that could complicate efforts to reopen Hormuz and ultimately end the conflict. Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of the council, stated that the strait would remain closed until Washington 'corrects its behaviour.' The six conditions include:
- Ending U.S. threats and perceived insults to Iran's national and religious values.
- Permanently halting attacks on Iran and its allies in Lebanon, Palestine, Yemen, and Iraq.
- Lifting the U.S. naval blockade on Iran and withdrawing U.S. naval and air forces from the region.
- Paying compensation for damages incurred from what Iran refers to as two 'imposed wars.'
- Lifting global sanctions.
- Unconditionally releasing frozen Iranian assets.
These conditions significantly expand the scope of demands beyond those initially outlined in the June MoU, linking the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to a broader set of political, military, and economic requirements. Notably, the explicit inclusion of Palestine, Yemen, and Iraq alongside Lebanon in the demand to cease attacks on Iran and its allies underscores the regional dimensions of Iran's concerns.
Key Obstacles to Agreement
The Strait of Hormuz remains an immediate point of contention. While an Iran-Oman arrangement could facilitate shipping, the U.S. opposes granting Iran unilateral control over the waterway and has objected to proposed fees. Conversely, Iran views control over shipping as a significant source of leverage. Transit through Hormuz has already seen a substantial decline as Iran targets vessels it accuses of deviating from its preferred route through Iranian waters.
Sanctions and the U.S. blockade represent another major hurdle. For Tehran, reopening Hormuz without securing meaningful economic relief would mean relinquishing a powerful bargaining tool with limited reciprocal benefits. Araghchi reiterated that compensation for war damages from the U.S. must be met, in addition to other conditions, before the strait can be fully reopened.
