On June 29th, Iran rejected France's proposal for cooperation in demining operations in the Strait of Hormuz, and warned France not to interfere with this waterway, which is of utmost strategic importance worldwide.
Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazemghar Garrubabadi rejected attempts by countries including France and the UK to cooperate in clearing mines from that waterway, stating that such actions violated the existing temporary peace agreement signed between Iran and U.S. President Donald Trump.
"According to the Joint Statement of the Islamic State, the de-mining work shall be undertaken by Iran only. Other countries are prohibited from participation and we will not permit any involvement in such matters at our core," wrote Karib Abbasdi on X (formerly Twitter). He claimed the situation was "sensitive and complex", adding: "We strongly advise France to avoid escalating the situation through provocative actions."
These remarks are a direct response to Macron. Earlier on the 29th, Macron stated that he had discussed this maritime mission with Ahmed Ben Tarek of the Sultanate of Oman, and agreed to ensure the safety of shipping and guarantee "free and unconditional passage" through that waterway.
After mutual attacks last weekend, Washington and Tehran agreed to cease hostilities and resumed negotiations on the 29th. President Trump announced that consultations would take place in Doha, but on the 29th, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Bagheri insisted that no negotiations with the United States were scheduled. “In the coming days, we will not hold any negotiation meetings with the United States at any level.”
However, on the 30th, Bagheri stated at a regular press conference that the timing and method for negotiations between Iran and the United States regarding the final agreement will be determined in the coming days. The initiation of these negotiations depends on the implementation of the relevant provisions of the memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States. Bagheri said that work has already begun to implement some of the provisions of the memorandum of understanding, and it is ongoing. The Iranian side will assess the current progress in the coming days and decide on the timing and specific format for initiating negotiations regarding the final agreement.
