Iran demands end to US naval blockade before talks and Hormuz transit resume

Iran has told the United States that it must halt its naval blockade before discussions can progress and maritime traffic can be safely restored through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei stated during a briefing on Monday that the next move rests with Washington. He maintained that Tehran’s terms are logical and clear, emphasizing that no formal pact can proceed until the American blockade ends and Iran's key requirements are honored.

The announcement follows reports that US Vice President JD Vance sent a diplomatic communication to Mohsen Rezaei, the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, reportedly at the direction of President Donald Trump in an attempt to restart talks and head off potential military action. Baghaei noted that Iranian officials will evaluate the US administration by its practical measures rather than its messaging style, adding that Rezaei would respond as he deems appropriate.

Tehran has prepared an expedited diplomatic framework that could be carried out quickly if the US cooperates, Baghaei said. The updated proposal condenses an earlier seven-day outline, initially introduced during meetings in New York, into a two-day schedule. Baghaei explained that the framework has been communicated through intermediaries in Qatar following a visit by Iran's deputy foreign minister to Doha.

Baghaei argued that the White House cannot expect passage through the strategic waterway to normalize while continuing an economic squeeze on Iran. He warned that any arrangement requiring Iranian concessions without reciprocal relief from Washington would be entirely unsustainable.

Tensions across the region remain acute. While Baghaei noted that Tehran is keeping diplomatic channels accessible through third-party intermediaries, he emphasized that Iran’s armed forces have tested modern arms, resolved operational vulnerabilities, and reached maximum combat readiness in case hostilities erupt.