Tehran: The United States has sent revised comments on Iran's proposal through Pakistani mediation, continuing exchanges on a proposed framework despite publicly rejecting Iran's initial 14-point proposal. Tehran has confirmed this ongoing dialogue amid diplomatic tensions.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei stated that Washington had conveyed a set of revised points and considerations via Pakistan after Iran submitted its proposal. Baqaei noted that despite the public rejection, the US had shared its concerns and considerations, which Iran reviewed and responded to through the same channel.
Baqaei emphasized that the process of negotiation is ongoing through Pakistan, and Iran remains firm on its uranium enrichment rights, dismissing media reports about the US proposal related to enrichment activities. He stressed that Iran's right to enrich uranium is non-negotiable, rooted in international law, and recognized under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
In discussing regional security, Baqaei highlighted consultations with Oman to ensure safe maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway vital for global trade. Iran is working with Oman to develop transit mechanisms and maintain secure passage through the strait.
Additionally, Baqaei revealed that Iran is pursuing legal action against the US and Israel for crimes against the Islamic Republic, having registered a lawsuit at the Iran-US Claims Tribunal based on the Algiers Accords. The case involves America's interference in Iran's affairs, sanctions, and other violations.
Baqaei clarified that Iran holds no hostility toward the American people, distinguishing between them and the US government, and criticized the economic consequences of the US-Israeli 'war of choice' imposed on Iran.
On Iran-China relations, Baqaei highlighted the appointment of Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf as special representative for China affairs, reflecting the importance Tehran places on its ties with China amid international developments.
Baqaei also censured Kuwait for an attack on an Iranian border patrol vessel and demanded the release of detained Iranian nationals, criticizing both the incident and its media coverage as incompatible with good neighborliness.
Regarding an attack on a South Korean vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, Baqaei stated that Iran is investigating the incident, warning against the possibility of 'false flag operations' by regional actors seeking to intensify instability.
Finally, Baqaei addressed reports of a Saudi proposal for a regional non-aggression pact with Iran, reiterating Tehran's position that regional security should be achieved through cooperation among regional countries and welcoming any efforts to build trust among neighboring states.