Iran's Parliament Speaker Justifies Talks with the US Amid Criticism

Iran's Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has defended the country's decision to engage in talks with the US in Switzerland, emphasizing the urgency to prevent further violence in Lebanon. Despite facing criticism, he argues that these negotiations are crucial for regional stability. The discussions mark the beginning of a diplomatic process aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict and managing the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The US has also announced a waiver on sanctions to facilitate economic relief for Iran. This article delves into the implications of these talks and the broader geopolitical context.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 13:27 IST

Iran Engages in Diplomatic Talks with the US

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, has defended the nation's choice to hold discussions with the United States in Switzerland. He countered internal criticism, asserting that these talks aim to avert further violence in Lebanon. Ghalibaf emphasized that the decision for the negotiating team to head to Switzerland was motivated by the urgent need to halt the rising bloodshed. His comments followed critiques broadcasted on Iran's state media, IRIB. He remarked, "In a recent program on IRIB, there were wishes that Mehrabad Airport had been shut down to prevent the negotiating team from departing for Switzerland. To those who think this way, I say that if we hadn't gone to Switzerland, more blood would have been spilled among the Muslims and Shiites of Lebanon every moment," Ghalibaf shared on X (formerly Twitter).

Furthermore, Ghalibaf stated that the operational status of the Strait of Hormuz will not revert to its pre-war conditions, asserting that Iran will oversee the strategic waterway according to its own protocols while still complying with international laws. As reported by Press TV, he declared, "It is essential for everyone to understand that the management of the Strait of Hormuz will not return to its previous state. While we will respect international regulations, Iran will control the Strait of Hormuz."

The initial round of high-level discussions between the US and Iran, conducted under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), has wrapped up in Switzerland. Mediators from Qatar and Pakistan described the talks as "promising." This diplomatic engagement marks the beginning of a 60-day process aimed at establishing a lasting resolution to the Iran conflict, which escalated on February 28 due to joint US-Israel military actions against Tehran. Both parties have outlined a pathway toward a permanent agreement and a framework to cease hostilities in Lebanon, as well as a communication line to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, thereby preventing potential conflicts in this crucial maritime route.

As part of the initial steps outlined in the agreement to provide economic relief to Iran, the US Treasury has announced a waiver on sanctions until August 21, permitting Tehran to sell oil and related products and receive payments for these transactions.