The Iranian government said it was reviewing a United States (US) proposal for talks as Tehran and Washington continued to exchange messages through mediators.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei told a weekly press conference in Tehran on Monday that Pakistan and Qatar continue to play the role of mediators between Tehran and Washington.
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“The exchange of messages between Iran and the US through mediators continues,” Baqaei said.
"We are reviewing the American proposal for negotiations. Iran's preconditions must be met in any negotiations," he added.
Baqaei said Russia also continues to play a constructive role on the Iranian nuclear issue. He alluded to Moscow's involvement in the 2015 nuclear deal.
He said Iran and Russia's relations are based on mutual trust.
Tehran welcomed the supportive efforts of friendly countries, but stressed that “technically and precisely,” mediation between Iran and the US remains in the hands of countries such as Pakistan and Qatar.
Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Baqaei said developments in the region were a direct consequence of the US and Israeli attacks on Iran. He rejected suggestions that Tehran's moves were intended to build leverage in negotiations.
“What we have witnessed in the Strait of Hormuz since February 28 is a direct result of the US and Israeli regime's attacks on Iran,” he said.
“With the current US approach, security will not return,” he added.
Baqaei also rejected the US assertion that Iran has lost its bargaining power. He said this claim does not correspond to the reality on the ground.
“They can say Iran has lost its bargaining power, but we are still doing our job,” he said, noting that the energy market did not respond to Washington’s statements as the US claimed.
He also expressed deep concern over ongoing tensions on the Arabian Peninsula.
He said Tehran was ready to facilitate dialogue between Saudi Arabia and the Houthi group in Yemen.
"We do not want war and hostility to continue between the two Islamic countries," he said.
Iran's consultations with regional countries are ongoing, he added, adding that Tehran has repeatedly offered assistance to facilitate dialogue and a peaceful resolution.
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