Despite rising tensions between Iran and the United States, diplomatic communication between the two countries is still ongoing. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei said that messages are continuously being exchanged through Pakistan, while Tehran is reviewing Washington’s latest position.
In an interview with state-run IRIB TV, Baghaei said both sides have exchanged several messages in recent weeks. He added that Iran is focused on ending conflicts across the region, including in Lebanon, but has placed some clear demands before moving ahead.
Iran Lists Key Demands
Iran has demanded the release of its frozen assets and asked the US to stop what it called “maritime piracy” and hostile actions against Iranian ships. Baghaei said Iran has participated in the diplomatic process seriously and honestly, but still deeply distrusts Washington because of its “very poor” record over the last 18 months.
Iran’s New Strategy on Strait of Hormuz
The Iranian spokesperson said Tehran is working with Oman to ensure “lasting security” in the Strait of Hormuz. He added that Iran is also ready to create new rules and protocols with other coastal countries to ensure safe movement of ships through the key global shipping route.
US Sends Fresh Draft Proposal
According to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, the US has sent a new draft proposal to Tehran after Iran recently shared a 14-point proposal. Reports said a mediator is currently in Tehran trying to narrow differences between the two sides, although no final agreement has been reached yet.
President Pezeshkian’s Strong Message
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on social media platform X that Iran has always honored its commitments and tried to avoid war. He added that “all paths remain open” and said attempts to pressure Iran into submission are “nothing but an illusion.”
40-Day Conflict and Failed Talks
A ceasefire between Iran, the US, and Israel came into effect on April 8 after nearly 40 days of conflict. The fighting began on February 28 following joint US-Israeli strikes on Tehran and other Iranian cities. Delegations from Iran and the US later held talks in Islamabad on April 11 and 12, but the discussions ended without any agreement.
Rising Tensions in Strait of Hormuz
After the conflict began, Iran tightened its control over the Strait of Hormuz and blocked the movement of ships linked to the US and Israel. Following the failure of the Islamabad talks, the US reportedly imposed a naval blockade in the region, affecting ships traveling to and from Iranian ports.
First published on: May 21, 2026 04:37 PM IST
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