Iran emphasized that a diplomatic solution is the only way to resolve conflicts with the United States and Israel, reaffirming its commitment to negotiations. This response came after President Donald Trump rejected Iran's proposed seven-day ceasefire.
According to a Reuters report on September 27, Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister, stated on social media, "Our conditions are clear," adding that any movement toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz is contingent upon meeting these conditions. He stressed that only a negotiated solution can break the current deadlock.
Araghchi noted that he has not yet received an official rejection from the U.S. mediator and will make decisions based on the final stance communicated by the U.S.
Araghchi and his aides are expected to remain in New York until September 30 to continue behind-the-scenes negotiations with the U.S., according to sources cited by Iran's state-run IRNA news agency. Araghchi arrived in New York on September 22 to attend the United Nations General Assembly and reportedly met with U.S. representatives, including Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Wittecroft.
During the recent UN General Assembly in New York, Iran presented a peace proposal through Qatar, the mediating country. Iran suggested that if the U.S. accepts the peace plan, it would reopen the Strait of Hormuz after a seven-day preparation period and halt regional hostilities, leading to comprehensive negotiations between both sides. Discussions may also include Iran's nuclear program.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated in a previous interview with CBS that Iran is ready to negotiate on its nuclear program and other issues but will not accept "harassment or coercion." He emphasized that while Iran does not seek war, it will defend itself against pressure, threats, and attacks, agreeing that Iran should not develop nuclear weapons. However, Iran will not relinquish its rights to develop peaceful nuclear technology and enrich uranium.
In contrast, President Trump announced on September 26 during a press conference at the White House that he rejected Iran's proposal, claiming that Iran's rush to reach an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz is due to its significant losses in the ongoing conflict.
Trump also asserted that Iran's economy is suffering increasingly due to U.S. pressure.
The Wall Street Journal previously reported, citing U.S. government officials, that Trump is skeptical of Iran's proposal and has told aides that he may resume bombing Iran after the November midterm elections.
Meanwhile, clashes in the Middle East continue to escalate. According to Bloomberg, a Saudi-led coalition intercepted two ballistic missiles and two drones launched by the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels toward Saudi Arabia on September 26.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.