Top Iranian leaders are engaged in discussions with Qatari mediators regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz—a focal point of tension 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 U.S. 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 United States meeting all of Iran’s demands. Meanwhile, Mohsen Rezaei, a senior Iranian security official, indicated that he has reviewed a letter from U.S. Vice President-elect JD Vance, which suggests a significant shift in Washington’s stance—a development he described as a positive sign.
Concurrently, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has instructed his military commanders to provide an “immediate and effective response, without any geographical limitations,” to any potential threat originating from the United States or Israel. Major General Ali Abdollahi, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, stated that Iranian forces are fully prepared following Khamenei’s directive.
On Saturday, Major General Abdollahi announced that, following the orders issued by 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 remarked that the prudent and decisive leadership of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution serves as a guiding principle for the commanders and all personnel within the armed forces. Abdollahi stated 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 engage the United States and other adversaries with full force and intensity, regardless of geographical boundaries.