What happened
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is prepared for war with the United States but has not abandoned diplomatic efforts. This comes after President Donald Trump publicly rejected a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint.
Araghchi emphasized that Iran stands firm in the face of any new aggression and is ready for diplomacy, leaving the choice to President Trump. Iran had offered a deal to reopen the strait and resume normal maritime passage within seven days, but Trump turned down the proposal.
Despite Trump's public comments, Araghchi noted that the rejection had not been officially communicated to Iran via mediators. Iran's conditions for an agreement include the release of frozen assets and the ability to sell oil, which Araghchi stated were not new and had been previously committed to by the US.
US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said the deal was rejected for several reasons, including the potential release of billions in frozen funds to Iran. Waltz questioned Iran's commitment to diplomacy, citing past violations of a memorandum of understanding.
