Iran: Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has declared that ending the war, lifting the blockade, and removing sanctions are the ‘minimum requirements’ for any serious peace arrangement. Accusing the United States of prioritizing pressure over diplomacy, Gharibabadi emphasized that ‘real peace’ cannot be achieved through ‘humiliation, threats, and forced concessions.’
According to Anadolu Agency, Gharibabadi’s message was delivered through a post on the US social media platform X. He criticized parties directly involved in the conflict for dismissing Iran’s response merely because it does not align with their demands, asserting that the core issue is not peace but the imposition of political will through coercion.
Gharibabadi reiterated Iran’s stance on ‘clear principles’ necessary for peace, including a permanent end to the war, prevention of its recurrence, compensation, lifting of blockades and illegal sanctions, and respect for Iran’s rights. He insisted that these are not excessive demands but rather fundamental necessities for any sustainable arrangement in line with the UN Charter.
The deputy foreign minister also condemned what he described as contradictory Western policies, pointing out the inconsistency in advocating for a ceasefire while maintaining blockades, speaking of diplomacy while intensifying sanctions, and claiming to support regional stability while backing aggressive regimes.
The conflict escalated following US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, leading to Tehran’s retaliatory actions and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire was established on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, but subsequent talks in Islamabad failed to secure a long-term agreement. Although the truce was later extended by US President Donald Trump, it lacks a specific deadline.
On Sunday, Iran responded to a US proposal for ending the war, which was rejected by Trump as “totally unacceptable.” Iranian officials maintain that their proposal aims to end the war, lift sanctions, and restore maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.