Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stressed that any negotiations over the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz are contingent on lifting the United States’ maritime blockade during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday, Al Mayadeen reported.
Pezeshkian and Macron discussed the region’s strategic situation, including developments related to the preliminary ceasefire framework and ongoing negotiations.
Pezeshkian underscored that the Israeli occupation has failed to uphold its ceasefire commitments in both Gaza and Lebanon, adding that under such circumstances, it is “natural” for the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon to act in defense of its country and people.
The Iranian president noted that despite progress in bilateral understandings reached during talks with France in New York, the United States obstructed that diplomatic track. He further criticized European states for not taking a critical stance toward Washington’s conduct, while simultaneously exerting secondary pressure on Iran.
Pezeshkian stated that Tehran has consistently engaged Europe in good faith, without receiving reciprocal commitment. He added that Iran entered into dialogue with the United States on two occasions, only to face military attacks both times, describing such actions as a “stab in the back”.
He emphasized that US threats, ambitions, and failure to adhere to necessary diplomatic frameworks have compounded tensions and complicated negotiations.
Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran has historically been a guarantor of regional stability, but underlined that US measures have destabilized the Strait of Hormuz and eroded trust among Gulf states.
He condemned US maritime blockade measures and the seizure of Iranian vessels, calling them violations of international law, disruptions to global trade, and acts of “maritime piracy”.
The Iranian president affirmed that Tehran remains committed to resolving all issues within international legal frameworks, stressing that Iran seeks only to secure the rights of its people. However, he made clear that reopening the Strait of Hormuz fully would require the lifting of the US naval blockade.
France backs diplomatic track
For his part, Macron voiced support for the ceasefire framework and stressed the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz through diplomatic means. He acknowledged that actions such as the US maritime blockade and Israeli attacks on Lebanon constitute violations of the ceasefire.
The French president also expressed readiness for Paris to assist in advancing negotiations, including efforts related to lifting sanctions and addressing issues tied to Iran’s nuclear file. Macron emphasized the need for multilateral guarantees from various parties to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
bd-pratidin/GR
