NEW DELHI : Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that Pakistan’s efforts to mediate and ease regional tensions have not failed, but are currently facing practical challenges.
He said that Tehran would welcome any positive and constructive role by China in helping reduce tensions and pushing diplomatic efforts forward.
Speaking at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi, Araghchi said Iran is trying to preserve the existing ceasefire so that diplomatic channels remain active and can gain momentum.
He added that Iran has “no trust” in the United States and would only consider negotiations if Washington demonstrates genuine seriousness and commitment.
The Iranian foreign minister said contradictory signals from Washington have complicated the negotiation process, while also noting that US sanctions have significantly impacted Iran’s economy and society.
According to comments aired by Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB, Araghchi said Iran is not responsible for any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that it did not initiate the conflict and is acting in self-defence.
He reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for vessels from “friendly countries,” provided they coordinate with Iranian authorities, while access would be restricted for what he described as Iran’s adversaries.
Araghchi also confirmed discussions with Russian officials regarding Moscow’s proposal to store Iran’s enriched uranium, expressing appreciation for Russia’s willingness to assist.
He said Iran may consider the proposal at a later stage of negotiations with the United States, but not at present, adding that further consultations would be needed before any decision.
Describing the situation in the Strait of Hormuz as “complex,” he said Iran is working to maintain stability in the strategic waterway and ensure regulated passage of ships under defined conditions.
Meanwhile, BRICS foreign ministers continued their discussions in New Delhi on the second day of meetings amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, where a fragile ceasefire has paused the US-Israel conflict with Iran that began on February 28.
At the conclusion of the meeting, India issued a chair’s statement instead of a joint declaration, noting that member states held differing views on developments in the region.
