Iran Ready to Ensure Safe Passage in Hormuz: FM Araghchi Welcomes India's Role

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during his high-profile visit to New Delhi, addressed a press conference where he made several significant remarks regarding regional security and international relations. Araghchi emphasized that there is no military solution to any issue related to Iran, reiterating the country's commitment to diplomatic channels. He stated that Iran is ready to allow all ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the importance of maritime safety in the region. The Foreign Minister also clarified that Iran has never sought nuclear weapons and believes that solutions can only be reached through dialogue and agreements.

Maritime Safety in the Strait of Hormuz

Addressing the concerns regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Foreign Minister Araghchi noted that the situation in the waterway is currently very complex, while despite these challenges, he affirmed that Iran is prepared to assist in the safe passage of all vessels through the strait. He stressed that there is no alternative to a negotiated settlement and that Iran is actively trying to help ships navigate safely. Araghchi mentioned that once the current acts of aggression are completely halted, the situation in the region will return to normalcy. On top of that, he expressed that Iran would welcome any steps taken by China to improve the conditions in the Strait of Hormuz.

High-Level Meetings with Indian Leadership

During his stay in the Indian capital, Araghchi held crucial discussions with the top Indian leadership, while he shared that he had a brief but productive conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This was followed by an extensive and long meeting with India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar. The discussions covered almost all pertinent issues, including the prevailing situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf region. Araghchi highlighted that both Iran and India share nearly identical views on these matters, noting that their concerns and interests in this vital region are aligned. He confirmed that Iran would continue to coordinate closely with its Indian counterparts.

Diplomacy, Ceasefire, and International Mediation

The Iranian Foreign Minister also touched upon the broader geopolitical landscape, stating that Iran had been trying to maintain a ceasefire to give diplomacy a fair chance. Regarding the mediation efforts by Pakistan, Araghchi remarked that these attempts have not failed yet. , while the Americans have every reason to trust Iran. He reiterated that Iran's primary focus remains on de-escalation and that the country welcomes any constructive role India might play in resolving the West Asia crisis.

In his concluding remarks at the press conference, Araghchi emphasized that the current complexities in the Strait of Hormuz are a result of ongoing aggression. He maintained that once these actions cease, the regional environment will stabilize. He reiterated that Iran and India would continue their coordination to protect their shared interests in the Persian Gulf. The Foreign Minister's statements underscore Iran's preference for diplomatic engagement and its readiness to ensure the security of international maritime routes once the regional tensions subside.