Iranian Diplomat Accuses US of Violating Peace Accord; Washington Hints at Stronger Response

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, an Iranian diplomat has stated that the United States has violated a peace accord by establishing a maritime corridor without coordination with Tehran. The diplomat, whose name was not disclosed, told Al Jazeera, as reported by the Wall Street Journal, that this violation by the U.S. justifies Iran’s decision to open fire on maritime traffic.

Meanwhile, Axios reports that U.S. officials claim the duration and intensity of new U.S. military operations will depend entirely on Tehran’s subsequent decisions and actions. The news outlet further cited a U.S. official who suggested that ongoing tensions hinge on whether Iran continues its attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. This official, adopting a threatening tone, remarked, “We will slap Iran a bit so they understand we are not joking about this.”

Several U.S. officials have indicated to Axios that the White House believes it has greater latitude to escalate tensions due to the passage of hundreds of oil tankers through the Persian Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz in recent weeks. These officials stated that the departure of these tankers has lessened the U.S. administration’s concern about a significant surge in oil prices resulting from renewed conflict.

Another U.S. official asserted, “The Iranians attacked first, and we decided it was time to respond powerfully.” This official added that if an agreement is not reached that aligns with U.S. objectives, it will not be signed. The official further claimed that Iran has lost some of its influence over the Strait of Hormuz due to hundreds of ships using the southern route near the coast of Oman.