Tehran (TDI): Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that talks between Iran and the United States are moving forward with the support of Pakistan, even as tensions continue to rise around the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking late Monday, Araghchi acknowledged what he described as Pakistan’s “gracious effort” in facilitating dialogue, but warned Washington against further escalation in the Gulf, saying recent developments show there is no military solution to the crisis.
The remarks came as both sides exchanged fresh actions in the region, with competing maritime blockades disrupting one of the world’s most critical energy routes. The situation has strained a fragile ceasefire that followed months of conflict triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year.
US President Donald Trump has launched a new initiative, dubbed “Project Freedom,” aimed at escorting stranded commercial vessels through the Strait. However, he provided few operational details and faced criticism over legal questions, as the move came after a deadline requiring congressional authorisation for military engagement.
While US officials say the effort is intended to restore freedom of navigation, Iran has rejected it outright. Araghchi criticised the plan, calling it “Project Deadlock,” and warned that any escalation could drag regional countries, including the United Arab Emirates, into a broader conflict.
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Despite the tensions, the US military said two American merchant vessels had successfully transited the Strait with naval support, though Iranian authorities denied that any such crossings had taken place in recent hours. Shipping giant Maersk said one US-flagged vessel had exited the Gulf under US naval escort.
The standoff has sharply increased shipping insurance costs and deterred major maritime operators, many of whom are waiting for a clearer security situation before resuming normal routes.
Meanwhile, a senior US commander in the region said American forces had destroyed several small Iranian boats during recent encounters, a claim Tehran has also denied.
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Iranian authorities have further escalated the rhetoric by releasing a map showing what they describe as an expanded maritime zone under their control, stretching beyond the Strait and along parts of the UAE coastline.
