Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has strongly criticized the United States, accusing Washington of choosing military escalation whenever diplomatic progress appears possible.
In a message posted on X, Araghchi said the US repeatedly turns to what he described as a “reckless military adventure” each time negotiations move closer to a potential solution. He also insisted that Iran would “never bow to pressure”.
The statement comes amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran and the United States have exchanged accusations over recent military confrontations. Despite the clashes, Donald Trump maintained that a ceasefire between both sides remains in effect.
The truce is intended to support negotiations aimed at ending the conflict launched earlier this year involving the United States, Israel and Iran. According to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Tehran is expected to respond to American peace proposals.
Speaking during a visit to Italy, Rubio said he hoped Iran’s response would demonstrate a serious willingness to negotiate.
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the crisis. Iran has tightened control over the strategic maritime route and has targeted several US allies in the Gulf region in retaliation for American and Israeli military operations. Around 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments pass through the waterway, contributing to major disruptions in global energy markets.
The United States has also intensified pressure on Tehran through a naval blockade targeting Iranian ports. Washington says the measures are designed to force Iran to accept the terms of a broader peace agreement, while Iranian officials view the blockade as an act of aggression.
On Friday, US Central Command announced that American forces intercepted two Iranian-flagged oil tankers attempting to enter an Iranian port through the Gulf of Oman. According to the US military, precision strikes were carried out against the vessels after they allegedly violated the ongoing blockade.
American officials say more than 70 tankers are currently being prevented from entering or leaving Iranian ports as part of the operation.
At the same time, Washington signalled plans to host a new round of talks next week involving Israel and Lebanon in an effort to reduce violence between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement.
The proposed discussions are expected to focus on long-term security arrangements, reconstruction efforts in Lebanon and the future of Hezbollah’s military capabilities. However, Hezbollah has reportedly rejected the negotiations and continues to oppose demands for disarmament.
Diplomatic efforts are also continuing through regional mediation. US Vice-President JD Vance met with Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Washington to discuss mediation initiatives involving Pakistan.
Qatar has called on all parties to engage seriously in negotiations in order to address the root causes of the crisis and secure lasting peace in the region.
The latest developments follow Thursday’s military exchanges in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command accused Iran of launching drones, missiles and attack boats against American warships, while Tehran claimed US forces had targeted Iranian vessels and coastal areas.
Iranian officials also reported that one cargo vessel caught fire near Minab following the attacks, leaving several sailors injured and others missing.
Meanwhile, Trump warned that the United States was prepared to intensify military operations if Iran failed to quickly accept a deal, stating that future strikes could be “much harder” and “more violent”.
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