Iran-US Talks Continue as Tehran Welcomes China’s Support

Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, announced on Friday that he has received indications from the United States expressing a willingness to continue diplomatic discussions. He emphasized that Iran remains open to support from various nations, particularly China.

Araghchi stated, “We received messages again from the Americans saying that they are willing to continue the talks and continue the interaction,” during a press briefing in New Delhi.

Trump’s China Visit in Spotlight

This statement follows remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who indicated that Chinese President Xi Jinping had offered assistance to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also noted that Xi had committed not to supply military equipment to Iran amid its ongoing conflict with the U.S. and Israel.

Araghchi expressed gratitude for any country capable of providing assistance, particularly highlighting Iran’s strong ties with China. “We have very good relations with China; we are strategic partners to each other, and we know that the Chinese have a good intention,” he remarked. He added that any diplomatic efforts from China would be welcomed by the Islamic Republic.

China has stated its commitment to facilitating an end to the conflict that escalated following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. The Chinese foreign ministry remarked, “There is no point in continuing this conflict, which should not have happened in the first place,” emphasizing the need for an early resolution that benefits not only the U.S. and Iran but also regional countries and the global community.

Pakistan: A Key Mediator

Pakistan has played a pivotal role as a mediator between the United States and Iran. However, a round of talks held in Islamabad in April did not yield any agreements. Araghchi noted that while the mediation process has not failed, it faces significant challenges, largely due to American actions and the existing mistrust.

During a recent BRICS meeting in New Delhi, which included representatives from Iran and Russia, discussions centered on the ongoing war in Iran and the associated fuel crisis. India’s Foreign Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, highlighted the “considerable flux” in global relations, exacerbated by conflicts, economic uncertainties, and energy insecurity.

Oil and War a Focal Point for BRICS Summit

The BRICS summit in New Delhi brought together foreign ministers from an expanded bloc that now includes Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates—nations with conflicting interests regarding the U.S. and Israeli-led conflict that began in late February. Jaishankar emphasized the current complexities in international relations, stating, “Ongoing conflicts, economic uncertainties, and challenges in trade, technology, and climate are shaping the global landscape.”

The summit underscored the pressing issues of energy, food, fertilizer, and health security faced by many nations, including those represented at the meeting.

Gulf Still Under Uncertainty and Instability

The situation in the Gulf remains precarious, with disruptions in shipping routes and the Strait of Hormuz contributing to volatility in oil and gas markets. This instability is placing additional pressure on energy-importing countries, including India.

India’s foreign ministry condemned a recent attack on an Indian-flagged vessel off the coast of Oman, labeling it “unacceptable.” All crew members were safely rescued by authorities in Muscat. The ministry expressed concern over the targeting of commercial shipping and civilian mariners but did not disclose details regarding the assailants.

In his remarks, Araghchi asserted that the Strait of Hormuz remains accessible to all commercial vessels that cooperate with Iranian naval forces. He reiterated, “There is no such thing as a military solution to anything related to Iran,” emphasizing that Iran does not yield to pressure or threats but responds to respect.

Source: timesofdubai.ae

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Published on 2026-05-16 15:09:00 • By the Editorial Desk