Iranian FM Araghchi says Pakistan-led mediation between US-Iran facing hurdles but remains active 

New Delhi (Web Desk): Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that Pakistan’s mediation efforts to help manage regional tensions have “not failed” but are currently facing challenges and difficulties.

He added that Tehran would be open to any positive and constructive involvement by China to help reduce tensions and encourage diplomatic movement forward.

While speaking at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi, Araghchi explained that Iran is trying to keep the existing ceasefire intact so that diplomatic channels can continue to function and gain momentum.

He also stated that Tehran has "no trust" in the United States and would only engage in talks with Washington if it shows genuine seriousness.

FM Araghchi repeated that Iran’s priority is to maintain the ceasefire in order to allow diplomacy a real chance to work, as he addressed reporters during the briefing.

He further said that “contradictory messages” coming from Washington have made the negotiation process more difficult, according to Al Jazeera. At the same time, he said that US sanctions have significantly affected Iran, noting that Tehran is fully aware of the impact caused by the restrictions imposed by Washington.

In comments aired by Iran’s broadcaster IRIB, Araghchi stressed that Iran is not responsible for any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, saying that Iran did not initiate the conflict and is only responding in self-defence.

He also reiterated Tehran’s stance that the strait is open for ships from “friendly countries”, provided they coordinate with Iranian authorities, while access remains closed for Iran’s “enemies”.

Araghchi also confirmed that he has held discussions with Russian officials regarding Moscow’s proposal to store Iran’s enriched uranium, and expressed appreciation for Russia’s “intention to help”.

He added that Iran intends to delay the uranium issue to later stages of negotiations with the United States, though it may evaluate Russia’s proposal when the appropriate time comes.

“When we come to that stage, obviously we will have more consultations with Russia and see if the Russian offer can help or not,” the Iranian FM said, adding that, “This is not something at the time being”.

On maritime security matters, FM Araghchi described conditions in the Strait of Hormuz as “very complicated”, stating that Iran is working to preserve stability in this strategic route. He further said that all vessels will be allowed passage except those belonging to countries “at war with Iran”, adding that ships must coordinate their transit with the Iranian navy.

Meanwhile, foreign ministers of the BRICS group met again on the second day of discussions in New Delhi. The meeting took place against the backdrop of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, which began on February 28 and is currently under a fragile ceasefire pause.

India issued a chair’s statement at the conclusion of the annual BRICS foreign ministers’ gathering instead of a joint statement, noting that member states held differing opinions on developments in the Middle East.