Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that a US return to its commitments under the Islamabad memorandum of understanding could help ease regional tensions.
Araghchi made the remarks on Monday during a phone call with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, according to Iran’s foreign ministry.
Araghchi blamed the current tensions on what he described as Washington’s failure to honour its commitments under the memorandum, saying US compliance would pave the way for a return to “normal conditions”.
The two ministers also discussed bilateral relations and the latest regional and international developments.
Araghchi briefed Motegi on negotiations between Iran and Oman over the Strait of Hormuz, saying the two countries had made “significant progress” towards establishing a temporary transit route through the strategic waterway.
He said consultations would continue on mechanisms for managing the route in the future.
Tokyo calls for restraint
Motegi expressed “deep concern” over the resumption of attacks between the US and Iran and called for an early de-escalation and the resumption of talks.
He urged Tehran to show “maximum flexibility” and restraint, particularly over attacks on civilian vessels.
Japan also called for the restoration of free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz without additional costs.
Moteqi said the waterway’s future should be discussed under international law by the international community, including littoral states, users of the waterway and the International Maritime Organization.
Motegi also urged Iran to encourage the Houthis in Yemen to exercise restraint and stressed the importance of stability in the Bab el Mandeb Strait.
The Islamabad memorandum was signed in June following mediation by Pakistan and Qatar, establishing a framework for ending hostilities and negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
Iran has accused the US of failing to implement provisions related to sanctions and a naval blockade, while Washington and Gulf states have called for unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran and Oman have since held talks on a temporary transit route, with Tehran saying the arrangement would remain temporary while discussions continue on a permanent mechanism.
