Tehran, Aug 29 (V7N) – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said diplomacy with the United States can resume if Washington abandons its reliance on economic pressure, reiterating that "pressure doesn't work" against the Islamic republicwor.
"Putting diplomacy back on track isn't impossible. It hinges on US understanding of one simple fact: pressure doesn't work," Araghchi posted on X on Friday . "The US should build trust, speak respectfully, acknowledge our rights, and uphold commitments," he added .
His statement followed a meeting with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who visited Tehran in an effort to revive diplomatic efforts that have been at a standstill for weeks . Qatar and Pakistan helped broker a memorandum of understanding in June that led to a ceasefire and included arrangements related to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz .
The Middle East war began in late February with US-Israeli strikes against Iran, prompting Tehran to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz and retaliate with attacks, mostly against Washington's regional allies . A ceasefire was agreed in April, but sporadic attacks, mainly around the strait, have dimmed prospects for a final peace agreement .
Tehran insists the strait will remain closed until Washington fulfills its commitments under the June memorandum, which calls for lifting the US counter-blockade of Iranian ports and removing sanctions . The US has since declared "economic warfare" against Iran, expanding sanctions targeting the country's oil, shipping and financial networks .
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