The key facts
- Pezeshkian: dialogue is impossible while the US threatens and has 'blocked all roads'
- He accused the US of backing away from its commitments
- The June memorandum on the Strait of Hormuz is not being implemented due to disagreements over security
Statement by the President of Iran
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Wednesday that the US cannot expect dialogue with Tehran while simultaneously issuing threats. According to him, Washington 'must recognize the rights of our people and stop the pressure and aggression, then we can sit down and talk.' 'You cannot block all roads, threaten, and at the same time want to talk,' he added. His remarks were reported by the state agency IRNA.
Accusations of Violating Agreements
Pezeshkian accused the US of backing away from its commitments. 'I believe one should not enter into an agreement lightly, but once an agreement is concluded, one must remain faithful to it to the end — even if it turns out to be unprofitable,' the president said.
Context of the Conflict
Tensions in the Middle East remain high since February 28, when the US and Israel began a war against Iran. Tehran responded with missile and drone strikes across the region and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington later imposed a naval blockade of Iranian ports. In June, the US and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding on freedom of navigation in the strait, but its implementation stalled due to disagreements over security issues on this strategic waterway.
