Tehran (Iran): Top Iranian leaders are engaged in discussions with Qatari mediators regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a focal point of rising tensions in the Middle East. Iran has made it clear to Qatar that the United States must first agree to its conditions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that if the US accepts these terms, the Strait of Hormuz could be reopened within two days.
According to reports from Al Jazeera and IRNA, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed the ongoing talks with Qatari mediators. He noted that a plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within two days has been finalized, contingent upon the US meeting all of Iran’s demands. Meanwhile, Mohsen Rezaei, a senior Iranian security official, stated that he has reviewed a letter from US Vice President-elect JD Vance. He indicated that the letter reflects a significant shift in Washington’s stance, describing this change as a positive sign.
Separately, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has instructed his military commanders to provide an “immediate and effective response—without regard for geographical boundaries”—to any potential threat from the United States or Israel. Major General Ali Abdollahi, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, confirmed that Iranian forces are prepared following Khamenei’s directive.
On Saturday, Major General Abdollahi stated that, following the orders issued by the Commander-in-Chief, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Hosseini Khamenei, to senior military commanders, the Iranian armed forces have updated their operational agenda to include a new list of enemy targets and assets. He stated that the wise and decisive leadership of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution serves as a guiding light for the commanders and all personnel of the armed forces.
Abdollahi affirmed that the armed forces are prepared to confront any form of aggression. He assured his Commander-in-Chief and the nation that they would remain steadfast in defending the country until their very last breath. The top commander declared that the Iranian military, utilizing modern, advanced equipment and technology, would confront the United States and other adversaries with full strength and intensity, regardless of geographical boundaries.
