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Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi attended a press conference at the Iranian embassy in New Delhi on May 15, 2026, as reported by Reuters.
– Araqchi states that Iran is prepared to resume hostilities if diplomatic efforts fail.
– The Iranian foreign minister welcomes China’s mediation efforts and considers China a strategic partner.
– Iran’s goal is to normalize traffic through the Strait of Hormuz if negotiations make progress.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi expressed that Tehran has “no trust” in the United States and will only engage in serious negotiations with Washington. He made these remarks during a visit to New Delhi for the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting, where talks on ending ongoing conflicts remain on pause.
Araqchi noted that all ships can pass through the Strait of Hormuz, except those at war with Iran. Vessels seeking passage should coordinate with the Iranian navy, as the situation in the area remains “very complicated.”
Since the outbreak of Iran’s conflict with the US and Israel in February, Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz to most maritime traffic. This strait previously accounted for about 20% of the world’s oil and gas shipments.
Although both the US and Iran announced a ceasefire last month, they have struggled to reach a permanent peace agreement. Negotiations, mediated by Pakistan, have been suspended after both sides rejected each other’s latest proposals last week.
Araqchi commented that conflicting signals have caused skepticism about the US’s genuine intentions for negotiations. He clarified that Pakistan’s mediation has not failed but is currently facing difficulties. Additionally, Iran remains open to support from China and other parties to help resolve Middle Eastern conflicts.
While Iran wishes to maintain the ceasefire to give diplomacy a chance, it stands ready to revert to hostilities if necessary. The main issues delaying talks involve Iran’s nuclear ambitions and control over the Strait of Hormuz.
These remarks follow recent comments from U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that his patience with Iran was running out, and, during talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, agreed that Tehran must reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
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