Iran has indicated it is open to a second round of negotiations with the United States, even as it issued a stark warning that it remains ready for war if its conditions are not met, Ambassador Mohammad Fathali said on Monday.
Addressing a press conference in the national capital, Fathali underlined that Tehran is willing to pursue diplomacy but only if its rights are recognised by Washington.
“Our high-ranking officials and delegations said that we are ready for peace. We are ready for negotiation. But you should know that Iran is also ready for war,” he said.
On the possibility of fresh talks, the envoy added: “We have formally and officially announced that if they (US) accept our conditions, it is predictable that we will have another negotiation.”
Strait of Hormuz Flashpoint
Fathali reiterated Iran's position on the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, asserting sovereignty while pledging adherence to international norms.
“This strait is our territorial water, and we decided to use from our capacity,” he said.
He maintained that Iran remains committed to freedom of navigation and international law, adding that mechanisms governing transit would be announced soon.
The remarks come amid rising tensions after the United States signalled a naval blockade of Iranian ports following President Donald Trump's announcement targeting the vital shipping lane, through which roughly one-fifth of global crude supply passes.
Fathali warned that any such blockade would violate international law, while indicating that Iran would keep the route open for friendly nations, including India.
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Distrust Over US Commitments
The Iranian envoy struck a sceptical tone on Washington's reliability, citing past experiences.
“We have not forgotten, and we will not forget, the US history breaches of commitments,” he said.
Referring to last year's 12-day conflict, he added: “At the last negotiations, they attacked… The Zionist regime and the United States started the attack. And after that, they announced the ceasefire, which we accepted.”
Key Issues In Talks
According to Fathali, recent negotiations—held in Islamabad—covered a range of contentious issues, including nuclear concerns, sanctions relief and war reparations.
However, he said several US demands were “unlawful,” contributing to the current deadlock.
The envoy also highlighted Iran's long history under sanctions.
“We have been imposed with more than four decades of different kinds of sanctions… now [they] announce maximum pressure sanction,” he said.
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'Reliable and Compassionate'
Fathali expressed gratitude to India for its support during challenging times, describing Indians as reliable and compassionate.
“I want to thank the Indian people… they have demonstrated that they are truly reliable and compassionate in times of hardship,” he said.
He added that Iran and India share “common interest, good relations and faith,” signalling that bilateral ties remain steady despite geopolitical tensions.
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