WASHINGTON: The White House has confirmed that US President Donald Trump convened a crucial meeting with his national security team to discuss a new proposal put forward by Iran.
As per reports, White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt informed during her briefing session that there was an important discussion in today’s session between President Trump and his national security team about Iran’s suggestion to resume passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
In her statement, Levitt said, “To be honest with you, I won’t say that it’s under consideration, but what I will say is that we had a discussion this morning. At this point, I’m not ready to give more details.”
When asked about the issue, she replied that it was for the President himself to disclose further information related to Iran’s proposal, and at this time, she is not able to confirm whether the President agrees or disagrees with the Iranian proposal.
White House spokesman added that President Trump’s “red lines” against Iran are clearly set out, and it’s important for him to prioritize his country and citizens’ safety.
Notably, Iran’s proposal relates to reopening its naval blockade, which would involve focusing first on nuclear talks later on.
Abbas Araghchi sends Iran’s red lines to US through Pakistan, claims Iranian news agency
Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has reportedly sent written messages to the United States through Pakistani intermediaries, outlining Iran’s “red lines” concerning nuclear issues and the strategic Strait of Hormuz. According to an Iranian news agency report, these messages were delivered during Araghchi’s recent visit to Islamabad.
According to the Fars News Agency, the Iranian communications to the US were not sent as part of any negotiations that are currently taking place between the two countries. Instead, this initiative was launched to make sure that Iran communicates its position in regard to important issues in the region. In essence, the messages cover the nuclear issue and the security of the Strait of Hormuz among other demands that the Islamic Republic has for the US.
The sources have revealed that Abbas Araghi communicated the red lines in a clear manner without exceeding Iran’s diplomatic borders.
Following the meetings that he held with Pakistani top-level officials such as Field Marshal Asim Munir and the Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, Araghchi proceeded to travel to Russia to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin for consultations on more regional issues.
The visit by Araghchi to Pakistan, which involved meetings with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar among others, shows the continuous efforts made by Iran to maintain solid diplomatic ties with its regional partners and assert its important strategic interests to the international community.
