Iran Calls US Talks ‘Continuation of Battlefield,’ Refuses to Yield Strait of Hormuz

Tensions between Iran and the United States are spilling across both diplomacy and strategy, with Tehran framing negotiations not as compromise, but as an extension of conflict itself.

Iranian MP Ebrahim Azizi has made it clear that Tehran’s diplomatic outreach is deeply tied to its strategic posture.

In an interview, he stated, "Iran acts based on national interests" and remains ready to take all necessary steps to "secure the country's interests and security".

He described negotiations in stark terms, saying, "We see the current negotiations as a continuation of the battlefield, and we see nothing other than the battlefield in this."

According to Azizi, talks only hold value "if it yields achievements that sustain those of the battlefield", warning that engagement would falter "if the Americans intend to turn this into a field of excessive demands, based on their bullying approach."

What are Iran’s red lines in talks with the US?

While confirming Tehran’s willingness to continue dialogue, Azizi stressed that engagement has limits.

He clarified that talks "does not mean to negotiate at any cost" or accept any "approach the other party practises", adding that Iran’s red lines "must be observed".

Among the key preconditions, he highlighted that "the issue of Lebanon has been very important for us", alongside the demand for "the release of frozen assets".

Azizi also warned that any move "contrary to the interests of the resistance front--which is part of our field of battle" would trigger consequences.

Will Iran join upcoming negotiations in Islamabad?

Tehran’s participation in future talks remains conditional.

Azizi noted that Iran has "never feared the principle of negotiation," but emphasized that sending a delegation to Islamabad depends on whether Washington offers a "positive signal" in response to Iran’s messaging.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz central to Iran’s strategy?

Parallel to its diplomatic stance, Iran has doubled down on its control over the Strait of Hormuz—a vital global corridor.

Azizi was unequivocal when asked about relinquishing control: "Never," calling it an "inalienable right."

He asserted that Tehran intends to define the "right of passage," including issuing "permissions for vessels to pass through the Strait."

Is Iran planning new laws to enforce maritime control?

Iran is reportedly moving to formalize this stance through legislation.

According to Azizi, a proposed law rooted in Article 110 of the constitution will cover "the environment, maritime safety, and national security," with enforcement assigned to armed forces.

The aim, he suggested, is to strengthen deterrence following recent regional conflict.

How does Iran view US presence in the region?

Azizi strongly criticized Washington’s role in West Asia, describing the US as "the biggest pirate in the world."

He pointed to American military bases across the region, which were targeted during recent hostilities, while accusing some Gulf nations of having "sold our region to the Americans."

What does this mean for regional tensions?

The statements come amid lingering friction despite a ceasefire announcement and continued maritime tensions.

Iran’s dual messaging—engaging in talks while hardening its strategic posture—signals a high-stakes approach where diplomacy and deterrence are tightly intertwined.

(With inputs from ANI)