Trump claims 'Iran wants ceasefire', wants Hormuz open as precondition
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran's President, Masoud Pezeshkian, has sought a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict. In a post on Truth Social, he described the Iranian leader as "much less Radicalized and far more intelligent than his predecessors." However, Trump said any possible ceasefire would only be considered when the Strait of Hormuz is "open, free, clear." Trump made it clear that until the conditions are met, the US would continue its aggressive stance against Iran.
Iranian response
You cannot speak to the people of Iran in language
Trump wrote, "Until then, we are blasting Iran into oblivion or, as they say, back to the Stone Ages!!!" In an interview with Al Jazeera, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected Trump's claims of a ceasefire. He said Tehran is determined to continue its fight. "You cannot speak to the people of Iran in the language of threats and deadlines," Araghchi said, adding that Iran does not set any deadline for self-defense.
Earlier remarks
Iran's foreign minister admits direct contact with US envoy
Araghchi earlier confirmed that he is in direct contact with the United States special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. He added that he receives messages from Witkoff directly or through regional intermediaries. "I receive messages from Witkoff directly, as before, and this does not mean that we are in negotiations," he clarified. Asked about a possible ground offensive by the US, Araghchi said, "We are waiting for them."
Iran's conditions
Araghchi relays Iran's stance
On Iran's plan for ending the war, the Araghchi said, "Our conditions for ending the war are clear. We will not accept a ceasefire." About a week ago, it was reported that Araghchi and Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf were temporarily removed from Israel's hit list to allow negotiations between Washington and Tehran.