Iran Signals It Will Only Accept “Fair and Comprehensive” Deal, Says Foreign Minister

Reuters

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Wednesday that Tehran would only agree to what he described as a “fair and comprehensive” agreement, amid ongoing diplomatic tensions with the United States and wider regional instability.

Speaking during talks in Beijing with his Chinese counterpart, Araghchi described China as a close friend of Iran, adding that bilateral cooperation between the two countries would become “stronger under the current circumstances”.

He also reiterated Tehran’s position that the United States’ military actions amount to a violation of international law, insisting Iran would take all necessary steps to defend its rights and interests in any negotiations with Washington.

The discussions took place with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who said Beijing was prepared to continue efforts aimed at reducing tensions. He stressed that direct engagement between the United States and Iran was essential, given what he described as a “critical juncture” in the region.

Wang expressed “deep concern” over the ongoing conflict, which he said has lasted for more than two months, and called for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire. He warned that continued hostilities were unacceptable and urged both sides to prioritise dialogue and negotiation.

According to remarks shared during the meeting, Wang also called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz “as soon as possible”, highlighting its importance to global trade and energy flows. He said the international community was increasingly urging safe passage through the vital waterway.

The Chinese Foreign Minister’s meeting with Araghchi took place in Beijing on Wednesday morning, according to the Xinhua News Agency, which did not provide further details. Iranian media reported that the talks were expected to cover bilateral relations as well as regional and international developments.

Araghchi’s visit marks his first trip to China since the outbreak of hostilities involving Iran, the United States and Israel earlier this year. China remains a major importer of Iranian oil and has continued to oppose sanctions imposed by Washington, while calling for restraint and diplomatic engagement.

The visit comes ahead of an expected trip by US President Donald Trump to China on 14–15 May. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Beijing to press Tehran over its regional actions, suggesting Iran’s conduct in key shipping routes was contributing to its international isolation.

Although China has largely maintained a neutral stance, it has repeatedly opposed attacks on Iran’s sovereignty and has supported diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation. Beijing has also called on both Washington and Tehran to uphold ceasefire arrangements and ensure stability in the Strait of Hormuz.

The broader conflict has seen multiple phases of escalation and attempted truces since late February, including US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and subsequent ceasefire announcements that have struggled to hold amid continuing disagreements over long-term arrangements.


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