TEHRAN – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has accused Washington of issuing “contradictory messages,” saying inconsistent communication from the United States is complicating diplomatic efforts, according to Iranian media reports.
In remarks broadcast by Iran’s IRIB, Abbas Araghchi said Tehran cannot be blamed for tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. He maintained that Iran did not initiate the conflict and is responding in self-defence amid escalating regional developments.
He further reiterated Tehran’s position on maritime movement through the strategic waterway, saying the Strait of Hormuz remains open to vessels from “friendly countries” if coordinated with Iranian authorities, while access is restricted for what Iran terms “hostile” states.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has moved to accelerate a major energy infrastructure project aimed at reducing reliance on the Strait of Hormuz for oil exports.
According to official statements from Abu Dhabi, the government plans to fast-track the West–East pipeline project, which will transport crude oil to Fujairah on the Gulf of Oman coast. The initiative, led through the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, is now expected to become operational in 2027.
Once completed, the project will significantly expand the UAE’s ability to export oil outside the narrow shipping lane, which remains one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints.
The UAE already operates the Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline (Habshan–Fujairah), with a capacity of around 1.8 million barrels per day, providing an alternative export route through the Gulf of Oman.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is a vital passage for global energy supplies, with several Gulf countries heavily dependent on it for oil shipments. Any disruption to the route has historically triggered volatility in global energy markets and supply concerns.
In related developments, the US State Department has announced financial rewards for information on individuals linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) drone production network, identified as the Kimia Part Sivan Company (KIPAS).
The department said the network is involved in drone testing, development, and supply activities, and offered rewards of up to $15 million for credible information on individuals and their financial links.
Separately, China has called for an immediate end to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, urging renewed diplomatic engagement during high-level talks in Beijing between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Donald Trump.
Chinese officials said there is “no point in continuing” the conflict, stressing that escalation serves neither regional nor global interests. They urged all parties to reopen dialogue, ensure maritime routes remain open, and pursue a long-term political settlement.
Beijing also emphasized the need to restore stability in the Gulf region, warning that continued disruption to shipping lanes could threaten global supply chains and worsen inflationary pressures driven by rising energy costs.
Trump meets Xi again, says neither country wants Iran to acquire nuclear weapons
