Iran Says ‘Pressure Doesn’t Work’ as It Urges US to Honor Commitments
“Putting diplomacy back on track isn't impossible. It hinges on US understanding of one simple fact: pressure doesn't work,” Araghchi said in a post on X.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday warned the United States that pressure would not force Tehran to change course, while urging Washington to honor commitments aimed at reviving diplomacy after six months of conflict between the two longtime adversaries.
“Putting diplomacy back on track isn't impossible. It hinges on US understanding of one simple fact: pressure doesn't work,” Araghchi said in a post on X.
His remarks came a day after he met Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Tehran. The Qatari diplomat's visit was aimed at reviving diplomatic efforts that have stalled in recent weeks.
The Middle East war began in late February when the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran. Tehran responded with missile and drone attacks, largely targeting US regional allies, while closing the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
An April ceasefire ended nearly 40 days of intense fighting, but sporadic hostilities, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, have continued to complicate efforts toward a lasting peace agreement.
Qatar has been seeking to help restart negotiations as Washington intensifies economic pressure on Tehran, which has faced international sanctions for decades.
Iran has also been holding talks with Oman over the future of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route. Tehran has maintained that the waterway will remain closed until the United States fulfills its commitments under a June memorandum of understanding, including lifting its counter-blockade of Iranian ports and removing sanctions.
“The US should build trust, speak respectfully, acknowledge our rights, and uphold commitments,” Araghchi said.
The latest diplomatic efforts come amid heightened tensions over Hormuz, with regional states seeking to prevent further disruption to shipping and create conditions for a broader political settlement.
Had creative discussions with H.E. the PM/FM of Qatar.
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) August 28, 2026
Putting diplomacy back on track isn't impossible. It hinges on U.S. understanding of one simple fact: pressure doesn't work. The U.S. should build trust, speak respectfully, acknowledge our rights, and uphold commitments. pic.twitter.com/9yQ2pOXe5R