Tehran: Iran is not currently holding direct negotiations with Washington, but only exchanging messages through mediators, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Sunday. "Until the violations of the memorandum of understanding by the United States are over and the United States does not compensate for what it has violated, it is not possible to restart the negotiations," Araghchi told reporters.

According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi mentioned that mediators are still seeking new ways to facilitate negotiations. He further elaborated on the progress of talks with Oman concerning the establishment of a new maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz, noting that they have made significant progress and have reached their final stage. However, Araghchi clarified that this does not signify an immediate reopening of the Strait, as it remains contingent on certain unspecified conditions.

The backdrop of these developments includes heightened regional tensions following attacks on Iran by the US and Israel in February. In response, Tehran and Washington agreed to a ceasefire in April, followed by a memorandum of understanding in June aimed at resolving the military conflict and achieving lasting peace. Despite these efforts, the agreement fell apart last month, leading to a series of exchanges between the two nations. US President Donald Trump eventually halted the hostilities amid ongoing discussions to resolve the conflict.