Photo: Reuters
New York: Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, told reporters at the UN that the United States’ naval blockade amounts to a violation of the ceasefire and should be lifted before any negotiations can resume.
He indicated that ending the blockade is a condition for restarting talks and suggested that discussions could take place in Islamabad once that condition is met.
Iravani further stated that the United States had initiated the war against Iran, adding that Tehran would be willing to return to negotiations if Washington is genuinely seeking a political resolution. At the same time, he cautioned that Iran is prepared for conflict if the situation escalates, IRNA reported.
Commenting on the possibility of renewed dialogue, he expressed cautious optimism, noting that an opportunity should be given for talks to move forward.
The United States and Israel had launched a military campaign against Iran on February 28, during which senior figures, including the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, were assassinated.
After 40 days of fighting, a two-week ceasefire was reached on April 8 with mediation by Pakistan, followed by negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting resolution.