Araghchi says US choice between diplomacy, war depends on “rationality”
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Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Sunday that the United States' decision to pursue diplomacy or another path depends on its "own rationality," as indirect consultations between Tehran and Washington continue amid efforts to end the war.
Speaking to Iranian state media, Araghchi said no direct meeting with US officials had taken place or been planned, adding that discussions were being conducted through intermediaries, including Qatar.
He said Tehran was reviewing a proposal initially presented as a seven-day plan but subsequently revised into a two-day framework.
Qatari mediators had visited Tehran, while his deputy traveled to continue consultations and relay developments.
Araghchi said the discussions were progressing but had not produced a final agreement, adding that the outcome depended on Washington's responses to several unresolved questions.
"We hope that there will be enough rationality on the other side to prefer diplomacy over other paths," he said.
Iran says armed forces prepared for escalation
Despite expressing support for a diplomatic solution, Araghchi warned that Iran was also prepared for renewed military confrontation.
He said Iran's armed forces were now significantly stronger than during the previous two conflicts, citing lessons and experience gained from earlier fighting.
"Our armed forces now have their mission clearly defined. They are far stronger now than during the past two conflicts," he said, adding that Tehran was prepared to defend itself while continuing to pursue diplomacy.
His remarks followed a message from Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, emphasizing military readiness amid concerns over a possible resumption of hostilities.
Qatar mediates as talks continue
The comments came as Iranian and Qatari negotiators held a third consecutive day of discussions in Doha on Sunday, seeking an agreement to end the eight-month US-‘Israeli’ war on Iran, according to Reuters.
The revised proposal reportedly aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within two days of a potential agreement, potentially easing disruptions to international shipping and energy supplies.
The latest diplomatic efforts follow earlier attempts to revive a June memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, which included provisions addressing Iran's nuclear program and maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Saturday that President Donald Trump had not decided whether to launch further strikes against Iran, while expressing a preference for a diplomatic resolution.
