Kathmandu— Brigadier General Ali Jahanshahi, commander of the Iranian army’s ground forces, warned the United States on Sunday that any foreign ground intervention in Iran would be met with swift retaliation, stating his troops were at full combat readiness and continuously monitoring borders for threats. Simultaneously, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi indicated indirect negotiations are ongoing through intermediaries but direct talks remain contingent on U.S. adherence to past agreements and compensation for perceived violations. These statements come amid reports of progress in separate talks between Iran and Oman regarding the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Military Readiness Declared

Jahanshahi issued a stark warning, stating that Iranian forces would “cut them off” if any U.S. military personnel entered the country. He emphasized the army’s full combat readiness and continuous monitoring of national frontiers to safeguard Iran's borders, highlighting Tehran’s preparedness to respond to any enemy action with what he termed a ‘firm and deterrent response.’

Indirect Negotiations Continue

Despite the strong military rhetoric, Foreign Minister Araghchi clarified that direct negotiations with the United States are not currently underway. He explained that communication is being facilitated through intermediary nations, noting several countries are attempting to create conditions for renewed dialogue. However, he stressed that Tehran will not return to direct talks until Washington addresses what it considers breaches of a bilateral agreement.

Strait of Hormuz Talks Progressing

Negotiations with Oman regarding the legal framework and traffic management through the Strait of Hormuz are nearing completion, according to Araghchi. However, he stipulated that reopening the strategic waterway is contingent on U.S. compensation for violations of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. He also indicated a previously used traffic separation scheme (TSS) is no longer acceptable, requiring a new route and associated technical and legal complexities.

U.S. Signals Potential De-escalation

A U.S. official speaking anonymously to Reuters on Friday reported progress in talks between Iran and Oman that could lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and restoration of disrupted oil exports. The official stated that once a deal is announced, the United States would lift its blockade of Iranian ports.

The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts continue alongside firm military posturing from both sides, with the resolution of outstanding issues related to past agreements and compensation remaining key obstacles.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.