Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, "We will not discuss a temporary cease-fire unless our demands regarding the Strait of Hormuz are met."
According to Iranian local media on the 24th (local time), the Minister stated accordingly while attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) foreign ministers' meeting in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan. It is interpreted to mean that the United States should recognize Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz.
The Minister said that, although several proposals had been conveyed through mediating countries, the current conflict is "a problem stemming from the U.S. approach." The Minister added, "Iran will not yield to pressure, threats, or coercion," and "it is natural for us to continue our current course unless the legitimate goals and demands of the Iranian people are achieved."
The Minister explained that during this meeting period, Iran held close discussions with Russia and China. The Minister also said foreign ministers of Shanghai Cooperation Organization member countries highly evaluated Iran's response to the United States and Israel.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization is a political, economic, and security consultative body launched in 2001 under the leadership of China and Russia. It is strongly characterized by checking Western-centered security alliances, including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).
The United States and Iran have been trading blows for 14 days. The United States struck Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran attacked U.S. bases in Kuwait and elsewhere with suicide drones.