TEHRAN: Iran on Monday described its proposal aimed at ending hostilities with the United States and reopening the Strait of Hormuz as a fair and constructive initiative, while accusing Washington of maintaining what it called unreasonable demands and continued economic pressure.
Iran’s Key Demands
Speaking at a media briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran’s key demands include an end to the conflict, removal of US restrictions and sanctions, and the release of Iranian assets frozen abroad under American pressure. He added that ensuring secure passage through the Strait of Hormuz, along with maintaining stability in the wider region and Lebanon, formed part of Iran’s broader proposal for regional security.
Baghaei characterized Washington’s position as obstructionist, stating that the US continues to demand concessions that Tehran considers beyond the scope of a fair negotiation. The Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of global oil passes, has been a flashpoint in US-Iran tensions for decades.
China Condemns US Sanctions
Separately, China strongly criticized new US sanctions imposed on three Chinese companies accused by Washington of supporting Iran’s military operations. Beijing called the measures unilateral and unlawful.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Chinese businesses are expected to operate within legal frameworks and stressed that Beijing would protect the lawful interests of its companies. He also said the immediate priority should be preventing any renewed escalation in fighting rather than linking other countries to the conflict or using the situation to make accusations.
Wider Implications
Analysts view the US sanctions on Chinese firms as likely to further strain already tense US-China relations. Beijing has consistently opposed extraterritorial sanctions, while Washington accuses China of providing material support to Iranian military programs. The dual developments highlight the complex diplomatic landscape as Iran seeks to negotiate from what it considers a position of strength while facing continued  economic pressure and new sanctions on its international partners
