Iran has urged countries to resist Washington’s sanctions campaign while signaling that access through the Strait of Hormuz and a possible return to diplomacy could depend on the U.S. easing economic pressure and addressing wider Middle East conflicts.
Iran Warns Countries Against US Sanctions
On Friday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry called on "all countries" not to implement U.S. sanctions against Tehran, warning that cooperation with Washington would amount to complicity in the U.S.’ "illegal will," CNBC reported, citing a letter published via Telegram.
The appeal comes as President Donald Trump’s administration intensifies economic pressure on Iran after months of war, threatening countries and businesses that continue commercial ties with Tehran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, meanwhile, said diplomacy with Washington remains possible under the right conditions.
"Putting diplomacy back on track isn’t impossible," Araghchi said Friday in a post on X, adding that renewed negotiations would depend on the U.S. understanding that "pressure doesn’t work."
He called on Washington to build trust, respect Iran’s rights and honor its commitments.
Iran Sets Conditions for Strait of Hormuz Reopening
Tehran has also linked the future of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz to broader developments with Washington.
Iran is currently allowing a "temporary and limited" corridor for ships through the waterway, while officials say a broader reopening will depend on understandings with the U.S.
Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, told Lebanese media outlet Al Manar TV that any agreement over Hormuz must address conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria.
He said Israel must withdraw from Lebanon and halt attacks on Syria, while the Gaza conflict must end.
Trump Rejects Talks With Tehran
Trump, however, has signaled little interest in immediate diplomacy.
"We don’t want to speak to them. We’re not looking to meet or anything," Trump told reporters Thursday.
The Trump administration is instead focusing on economic pressure, with officials seeking to isolate Iran financially.
While U.S. officials say international shipping lanes through Hormuz are open, vessel traffic remains far below prewar levels, keeping energy markets on alert.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Shutterstock