Iran's Security Council Secretary Rezaei declared that Iran has every right to distrust America, defending the country's skepticism even as it engages in diplomacy and negotiations.

Iran's stance on US credibility

Rezaei stated that while Iran participates in diplomatic processes and negotiations, it retains the right to remain skeptical of American intentions. He directly rejected US characterisations of Iran as untrustworthy, calling such claims a lie, according to IRIB News.

Context of the remarks

The remarks reflect the broader tension framing Iran-US diplomatic engagement. Rezaei's position, as conveyed through IRIB News, presents Iran's posture as one of conditional engagement, where participation in talks does not equate to unconditional trust in the opposing party.

Iran’s Security Council Secretary Ali Shamkhani, identified in state media reports as Rezaei, announced that Tehran will declare a restricted zone beyond the Strait of Hormuz in the coming days. The zone will start from the line of the U.S. Navy’s blockade and extend into the Persian Gulf. Ships entering this area with the intention of passing through the strait will be added to Iran’s sanctions list.

Zone boundaries and implications

The restricted zone is designed to counter what the official described as U.S. policy of "complete control." According to IRIB News, any vessel identified entering the zone with the intent to transit the Strait of Hormuz faces sanctions. The official stated that Iran has not yet decided to sink five to six vessels it claims are being smuggled by the U.S., noting they carry petroleum products.

Key details of the announcement

Military and diplomatic context

Rezaei claimed that 48 hours prior to the announcement, Iran tested an anti-ship missile above a U.S. warship for the first time. He stated the missile created "hell" for the Americans, who "fled." The official emphasized that Iran will keep the Strait of Hormuz open only if the United States neither threatens nor attacks Iran.

In broader diplomatic remarks, Rezaei criticized U.S. policy as seeking "servants who follow orders blindly." He asserted that Americans have never honored commitments and cited the Pahlavi dynasty as having been abandoned by the U.S. after fleeing revolutionary pressure. Rezaei also dismissed claims that U.S. sanctions have caused famine in Iran, stating the government holds sufficient stocks of food and basic goods.