Iranian parliament speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf stated Tuesday that the United States must take action to prevent a return to full-scale war. His remarks followed U.S. military strikes on Iranian anti-aircraft facilities in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, November 2, 2026. Qalibaf said Tehran had provided a "firm and rational response" to U.S. demands regarding nuclear weapons and the reopening of the vital shipping channel.
The recent military activity follows months of tension since a U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran began on February 28, 2026, leading to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. On Monday, November 2, the U.S. conducted strikes on Iranian targets on Qeshm and Hengam islands, which U.S. officials described as defensive. President Donald Trump confirmed the strikes on Tuesday, November 3, stating the U.S. had monitored the construction of an Iranian facility for two months before hitting it upon completion.
Diplomatic efforts continue indirectly through Qatari mediators. Vice President JD Vance reportedly contacted Iranian security chief Mohsen Rezaei recently to discuss restarting negotiations. However, Rezaei stated on social media Tuesday that Iran will only reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the U.S. addresses seven specific conditions, including lifting the naval blockade on Iranian ports, waiving sanctions on oil sales, and securing a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Military and government personnel from the U.S., Israel, and Iran are directly involved in the active combat operations that began in February 2026. In the U.S., the Trump administration is also managing a shift in Middle East policy, as the president announced on Tuesday, November 3, that the U.S. will cease providing $4 billion in annual aid to Israel while continuing arms sales. This change represents a significant shift in the financial relationship between the two allies, which Trump noted had been under discussion for several years.
The next steps in the conflict depend on the outcome of indirect diplomatic talks and the U.S. response to Iran's conditions for reopening the strait. While President Trump has suggested the possibility of major combat operations after the midterms, Vice President Vance noted on November 2 that the administration sees potential for a negotiated settlement. No specific dates for future strikes or formal meetings have been announced, though Iran is moving forward with plans to train 1 million paramilitary volunteers at new centers in Tehran.