Iran rejects Trump's claim that Tehran asked U.S. to call off strikes
Iran's Mehr news agency on Sunday (August 2, 2026) denied President Donald Trump's claim that the Islamic republic asked the United States to refrain from conducting new strikes. Citing military officials, the agency said the allegation “was nothing but a new lie” and that the Iranian armed forces were “on high alert and ready for any eventuality”.
On Saturday (August 1, 2026), Mr. Trump said the U.S. was “ready to go against the Islamic republic” but that Tehran and other West Asian countries had asked him to hold off on fresh strikes. He said he had made the decision, subject to reaching a deal with Iran. In a Truth Social post, he wrote that any agreement “would include the Immediate, Complete and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran’s nuclear threat”.
On Sunday, Iran's Fars news agency, citing a source close to Iranian negotiators, said “as long as the United States maintains its hostile actions, the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed”. This came in direct response to Mr. Trump's assertions, underscoring the deep mistrust between the two nations.
Iran has blockaded the Strait of Hormuz since the start of the war, requiring vessels to obtain permission and pay transit fees before using the waterway. The strait is a critical passage for global oil shipments, and its closure has raised concerns about energy markets and international trade. However, the blockade has also been a point of tension in the region, with the United States and its allies viewing it as a threat to maritime security.
The exchange of claims and counterclaims reflects the fragile state of U.S.-Iran relations. While Mr. Trump has framed his stance as a path to diplomacy, Iranian officials have repeatedly stressed their readiness for confrontation if needed. The situation remains fluid, with no clear indication of when or if negotiations might resume.
