Strait of Hormuz Row: Iran Slams 'Fabricated' Reports of Deal with US
Iran denies making a new proposal to the US via Pakistan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions rise with Donald Trump.
Tehran has vehemently denied reports suggesting it offered a deal to the United States to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the lifting of a US naval blockade. Iranian media has dismissed these claims, asserting that no such proposal was sent to Pakistani mediators.
Denial of Saudi Reports
The Tasnim news agency, which is affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), reported that claims originating from a Saudi Arabian outlet are nothing more than "a lie and fabrication." These reports had suggested that Tehran was using Pakistan as a bridge to offer Washington a deal to reopen the strategic waterway if the US naval blockade were removed.
Conflicting Diplomatic Signals
The denial comes despite previous statements from Iranian officials. On October 18, while in Baghdad, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had mentioned that a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days remained on the table. Araghchi had stated that the path to reopening the waterway was obvious, provided there was "honesty" on the part of the United States—something he expressed doubt about.
Trump Threatens 'Epic Fury'
While diplomatic channels remain strained, US President Donald Trump has maintained a hardline stance. During a campaign rally in Florida, Trump indicated that while a deal with Iran is possible, he will not rule out military intervention. He emphasized that any agreement must permanently stop Tehran from developing nuclear weapons.
In a direct warning to the Iranian leadership, Trump teased the possibility of another military strike, suggesting Washington might launch "another little Epic Fury" to force compliance. He questioned the strategic intelligence of Tehran's leaders, suggesting that if they were "smart," they would simply "get down to business."
Military Standoff in the Gulf
As rhetoric escalates, the IRGC has asserted its absolute control over the Strait of Hormuz, claiming that security is being maintained for vessels that follow Iranian regulations. However, the region remains volatile; the IRGC Navy recently alleged that two supertankers, carrying over 4.5 million barrels of crude oil, hit naval mines while attempting to use an "unauthorised southern route."
Iran's Defiance Against US Navy
Iran has issued a stern warning that US military vessels will not be permitted to enter the Persian Gulf. Major General Ali Abdollahi, Chief of the General Staff of Iran's Armed Forces, claimed that Iranian forces have rendered the US Navy ineffective in the region.
"The US president must only dream of their military and army entering the Persian Gulf again. They will take this wish to their graves," Abdollahi stated.
Furthermore, General Abdollahi challenged President Trump's assertions regarding Iran's nuclear capabilities. He questioned why the US continues to express concern over Tehran's nuclear programme if, as Trump has claimed, the facilities had already been destroyed.