In comments during a visit to Turkmenistan on Monday, Araqchi said consultations and diplomatic contacts have intensified amid the sensitive circumstances, with Qatar and Pakistan playing an active mediating role.

He noted that Iran has already presented its conditions and proposal, adding that the outcome now depends on Washington’s political rationality.

Tehran is ready to pursue diplomacy if the US genuinely seeks a diplomatic solution, but would deliver a response “more bitter and severe than before” if Washington resorts to deception or military operations, the foreign minister warned.

Araqchi stressed that Iran’s conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz are entirely clear and transparent. Acceptance of those conditions would lead to the reopening of the strategic waterway and the resumption of negotiations; otherwise, the current situation would continue, he explained.

He emphasized that Iran would not bow to pressure or back down from its position.

Araqchi also commented on the visit to Beijing by the deputy secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, saying the consultations were part of Tehran’s ongoing strategic communications with key partners.

He noted that the discussions covered major regional developments, security issues, and matters related to peace and war.