Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has embarked on a significant diplomatic mission, visiting three countries within the last 24 hours. Araghchi's whirlwind tour began on Sunday in Pakistan, marking his second visit to Islamabad in three days. During this visit, he met with Pakistan's Army Chief, General Asim Munir. Prior to this, he held discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other high-ranking officials.
'Red Line' Document and Nuclear Proposal in Pakistan
According to reports, Araghchi submitted a 'red line' document during his stay in Pakistan, outlining Iran's clear conditions, while this document includes proposals regarding the nuclear issue and the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi stated that Iran has provided a workable plan to resolve the ongoing problems. However, questions remain as to whether the United States truly intends to engage in negotiations.
Security of the Strait of Hormuz and Toll Booth Plan in Oman
Following his Pakistan visit, Araghchi traveled to Oman, where he met with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, while the meeting focused on the security of the Strait of Hormuz and the regional situation. Araghchi emphasized that countries connected to the Strait must work together to ensure the safety of this route, as it benefits the entire world. According to a CNN report from three weeks ago, Iran is planning to establish a toll booth in the Strait of Hormuz in collaboration with Oman. Since one end of the Strait is in Oman and Iran fears the US might establish a base there, it intends to share the toll revenue with Oman.
Meeting with President Vladimir Putin in Russia
In the next leg of his journey, Araghchi arrived in Russia on Monday, where he's scheduled to meet with President Vladimir Putin. The meeting will cover issues such as regional security, Western sanctions, and the Strait of Hormuz crisis. Araghchi's diplomatic efforts come at a time when talks with the US have stalled. US President Donald Trump had initially canceled the visit of his representatives, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, to Pakistan because negotiations weren't progressing. However, at Pakistan's request, he later agreed to extend the ceasefire for a period.
Currently, the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, and Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) have made it clear that maintaining control over it's part of their strategy, while on the other hand, the US has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports, and peace talks between the two nations are suspended. Araghchi's continuous visits indicate that Iran seeks a quick resolution and is attempting to find a way forward by engaging with various countries.