Iran denies direct talks with US amid Strait of Hormuz tensions

Abdullateef Fowewe

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has rejected claims of direct negotiations with the United States, reaffirming its unchanged stance on the Strait of Hormuz and conditions for ending the ongoing war.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei addressed the matter in remarks carried by the state news agency IRNA.

“Messages have been received from some friendly countries regarding the US’s request for negotiations to end the war,” Baghaei stated, emphasising that no direct talks occurred.

Baghaei also conveyed Iran’s stern warnings in response.

“Iran responded by giving warnings about ‘the dire consequences of any attack on Iran’s vital infrastructure,’” he added, underscoring Tehran’s defensive posture.

The denial follows recent assertions by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed the U.S. had spoken with senior Iranian leaders and that the Iranians initiated contact first.

Tensions remain high over control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments.