Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei announced on Monday, July 13, 2026, that the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran "has entered a crisis stage" following an escalation in attacks over the past week. Baghaei attributed Iran's failure to fulfill certain points of the agreement to the US having "violated its commitments," according to a report by the official Islamic Republic News Agency.

Addressing rumors about recent weekend talks in Oman, Baghaei clarified that discussions were "solely focused on the issue of the Strait of Hormuz." He stated, "Our effort was to reach a mechanism in consultation with Oman that would ensure the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz." However, no agreement was reached due to what he described as "overt and covert pressure from the U.S. on Oman."

Baghaei emphasized that Iran is adhering to the Strait of Hormuz clause in the memorandum and asserted Tehran's right and obligation "to take the necessary measures to protect our security and national interests," noting that the Strait and surrounding areas had been "misused to harm Iran's security and national interests."

He also criticized the presence of US warships escorting commercial vessels through the Strait, saying it "confirms the U.S.' insistence on continuing insecurity in the region."

Regarding Iran's ongoing attacks on neighboring countries, Baghaei defended the actions by stating that Iran targets only "the bases, facilities, and positions used by the United States to attack Iran, including its logistical and support facilities."

Additionally, Baghaei dismissed the possibility that Rafael Grossi, director of the International Atomic Energy Agency, would be allowed access to Iran's nuclear facilities.

This development follows President Donald Trump's announcement on February 28, 2026, of "major combat operations" against Iran, involving massive joint U.S.-Israeli strikes.

Cargo ships near the Strait of Hormuz
Cargo ships anchoring near the Strait of Hormuz off the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates at Khor Fakkan on July 12, 2026.

Sources