Iran’s Foreign Minister Arrives in Russia Amidst Tense Peace Efforts
Abbas Araghchi arrived in Saint Petersburg, where he is expected to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This visit follows his recent trips to Oman and Islamabad as part of ongoing regional diplomacy aimed at keeping peace talks between Tehran and Washington alive.
US President Donald Trump canceled a planned trip for US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Islamabad on Saturday. Despite this, Iran has reportedly sent written messages via mediator Pakistan outlining red lines, including nuclear issues and the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian state news agency IRNA cited a report that Iran had proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending the war with a later stage for nuclear negotiations. The US official and two other sources informed Axios about this proposal.
The ongoing ceasefire in the US-Israeli war with Iran has held, but economic shockwaves continue globally due to Iran’s closure of the strait. This has led to soaring fuel prices and concerns over food insecurity in developing countries.
Russian and Iranian state media confirmed Araghchi’s talks with Putin, citing officials from their respective governments. The Revolutionary Guards stated they have no intention of lifting their blockade on the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Israel and Hezbollah traded blame over ceasefire violations in Lebanon, leading to continued fighting and casualties.