Iran's Araghchi says diplomacy ‘not impossible’ if Washington drops pressure

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said diplomacy with the US can still be revived if Washington abandons its reliance on economic pressure and rebuilds trust.

Following talks with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Araghchi said “putting diplomacy back on track isn't impossible” as the six-month-old war has reached a stalemate.

He said Washington must recognise that “pressure doesn't work”.

Had

creative discussions with H.E. the PM/FM of Qatar. Putting diplomacy back on track isn't impossible. It hinges on U.S. understanding of one simple fact: pressure doesn't work. The U.S. should build trust, speak respectfully, acknowledge our rights, and uphold commitments. pic.twitter.com/9yQ2pOXe5R

— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) August 28, 2026

The comments came after his meeting with Qatari PM as its maritime neighbour renewed mediation efforts between Tehran and Washington. The Qatari prime minister visited Tehran on Thursday amid efforts to revive diplomacy and ease tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.

Araghchi's call not to resort to pressure tactics also comes days after the US announced expanded sanctions targeting Iran’s oil, shipping and financial networks under "Operation Economic Outcast".

He also warned that countries and entities maintaining business ties with Tehran could also face penalties. Washington has described the campaign as an effort to cut off Iran’s economic lifelines.

The latest measures have added pressure to an already battered Iranian economy, with Washington seeking to squeeze Tehran into accepting US demands. The US has also signalled that sanctions could be expanded further to target Iran’s trading partners.