Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei has firmly denied any current negotiations with the United States. Speaking in a recent statement, Baghaei clarified that talks are limited exclusively to bilateral coordination with Oman. The discussions focus solely on establishing a temporary safe shipping route through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iran continues to assert its position as one of the two coastal states responsible for the waterway. The remarks underscore Tehran’s rejection of broader external involvement in managing the strait.

The comments come in the aftermath of the 2025-2026 conflict involving Iran, the United States, and its allies. During the fighting, Iran restricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint. A fragile ceasefire memorandum of understanding requires agreement between Iran and Oman on navigation arrangements. Iran insists the strait will not return to its pre-war open status. Officials emphasize that any corridor must be mutually acceptable to the two coastal nations and respect Iranian sovereignty.

Baghaei stressed that the ongoing process involves only Iran and Oman, with no role for the United States or other outside parties at this stage. Tehran maintains that the strait remains closed until a suitable temporary arrangement is finalized. Iran rejects claims of foreign interference and positions itself as the primary decision-maker alongside Oman. The spokesman framed the talks as a technical and political matter between the littoral states. This approach allows Iran to retain significant leverage over maritime traffic in the region.

The Iranian position highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and the limits of post-conflict diplomacy. By confining negotiations to Oman, Tehran is signaling its determination to control the terms of any reopening. The temporary nature of the proposed route further underscores that full restoration of previous navigation freedoms is not on the table. As global shipping interests watch closely, Iran’s stance continues to shape the fragile security environment in one of the world’s most vital waterways.