Iraqi: No Serious Initiative to Stop the War... Ending It Dependent on Guarantees and Compensation

SadaNews - Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Sunday that ending the U.S.-Israeli war against his country depends on providing guarantees against its recurrence and paying compensation, stressing that Tehran is open to any regional initiative that could lead to a "just" cessation of hostilities. He added that the Strait of Hormuz will remain open to international shipping, except for U.S. and allied vessels.

Araqchi stated that the attacks carried out by his country in the region are aimed "only at U.S. bases and interests," emphasizing that Tehran has "not targeted any civilian or residential areas in the neighboring countries so far." He added that Iran is ready to form a joint investigative committee with neighboring countries regarding the targets that have been subjected to attacks during the ongoing military escalation.

Araqchi accused Israel of possibly being behind the targeting of civilian sites in Arab countries, aiming to "sabotage relations with Iran." He said that the United States has developed a drone similar to the Iranian "Shahid" drone, named "Lucas," claiming that it is "identical to it" and used to carry out attacks within Arab countries.

Araqchi reiterated that Tehran has not targeted any civilian or residential locations in the region so far, adding that Iranian attacks focus on "military targets linked to the United States."

He warned that targeting Iranian energy facilities would lead his country to respond by targeting American company facilities in the region.

Regarding the future of the war, Araqchi said there is "currently no specific initiative put forward" to end it, noting that Tehran welcomes any regional initiative that could lead to a "just" end to the war.

He emphasized that ending the war is contingent upon "guarantees against its recurrence and compensation."

He also considered the occupation of an offshore island to be "a bigger mistake than attacking it," referring to the strikes that targeted the island in recent days.

Araqchi addressed the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the strait is "open to everyone except U.S. and allied ships."

He confirmed that the internal situation in Iran is "stable," denying any rifts within state institutions or the military.

He also noted that diplomatic communications with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and several neighboring countries continue in an attempt to contain the escalation.