Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has firmly declared that Tehran has no plans to negotiate with the United States, dismissing claims made by President Donald Trump.

He stressed that while discussions are proceeding step by step with Oman, Washington will not be allowed to dictate the terms of engagement. His remarks were broadcast on State TV and carried by Al Jazeera.

Gharibabadi emphasised that the US cannot be permitted to fight whenever it chooses and then sit at the negotiating table whenever it pleases. He claimed that it was Washington itself that sent messages pleading for an end to the conflict, contradicting Trump’s assertion that Iran had asked the US to pause strikes.

Trump had earlier stated that the US halted recent military operations against Iran after Tehran requested a ceasefire, warning that attacks could resume if no new agreement is reached. Gharibabadi rejected this narrative, insisting that Iran will not allow America to pick and choose between war and diplomacy.

He reiterated Iran’s refusal to recognise alternative southern shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. He maintained that mine removal operations must remain exclusively under Tehran’s control, reinforcing Iran’s claim of sovereignty over the strategic waterway.

The deputy minister adopted a hardline stance against foreign naval forces. In remarks highlighted by Press TV, he warned that any European naval vessel approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be considered a legitimate target. His comments came amid reports that some European countries may join US efforts to reopen Hormuz, five months after it came under Iranian control following a US‑Israeli war of aggression.

Gharibabadi stressed that Iran’s fixed policy is that the Strait of Hormuz will never return to its pre‑war state. He noted that Tehran has discovered a new defensive capability by securing control over the corridor. He argued that if the strait were to revert to its pre‑war status, Iran’s success in the conflict would not be complete.

Defending earlier actions to block ships sailing through a southern corridor near Oman, he declared that Iran is not concerned about any adversarial action, including the resumption of war. He insisted that Iran seeks to consolidate its sovereignty over the strait and has upgraded its defensive tools to ensure this outcome.

He concluded by stressing that the corridor is an essential component of national defence. He warned that the international community must understand that Iran cannot, under any circumstances, abandon these capacities. His remarks underline Tehran’s determination to maintain control over the strait as a symbol of its strategic victory.

Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) highlighted the scale of its ongoing military operations to secure maritime trade routes. CENTCOM reported that more than 20 US Navy warships are currently operating across the Middle East, enforcing America’s steel wall blockade against Iran.

As of 28 July, CENTCOM confirmed that it had redirected 18 commercial vessels, disabled two, and boarded two to ensure full compliance with its enforcement measures. These operations reflect Washington’s determination to maintain pressure on Tehran despite its refusal to negotiate.

The confrontation over the Strait of Hormuz has become a defining feature of the broader conflict. Iran’s insistence on sovereignty and its threats against foreign naval forces signal a dangerous escalation, while US military operations continue to intensify.

The situation remains volatile, with both sides entrenched in their positions and regional stability under severe strain.

ANI