Pezeshkian told IRNA that the U.S. has launched three hostile strikes since the June memorandum, arguing that the talks have turned into a prelude to war. He added that Washington and Israel, who opened the conflict in late February with surprise air raids, have now turned to economic leverage.
The June memorandum of understanding had promised a framework for ending the conflict, but Iranian attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz forced the U.S. to resume operations. In September, the U.S. halted its last strike and has since relied on counter‑blockades and sanctions.
UK Maritime Trade Organisation reports that a tanker was hit while transiting the Hormuz on Sunday, and another vessel withdrew after Iranian forces threatened it on Monday. These incidents have intensified calls from Tehran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, that any military solution is futile and that justice‑based negotiations are the only path to peace.
Washington’s next move is likely to maintain its economic pressure, keeping sanctions in place while keeping a watchful eye on any escalation. The U.S. has not struck Iranian targets since September 1, signalling a shift toward diplomatic and financial tools as the primary means of containment.