Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that Tehran is prepared for a “doomsday” war with the United States, emphasizing that despite the readiness for conflict, Iran remains open to diplomacy. Araghchi made these remarks during an interview on NBC News’ “Meet the Press” shortly after the United Nations General Assembly. He noted that while Iran sees no immediate reason for renewed diplomatic talks, it will not pass up any opportunity for peace and is willing to negotiate as firmly as it is prepared to confront any aggression.

The tensions persist amid ongoing disruptions of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) recently claimed to have captured a U.S. Remus 600 unmanned underwater vehicle in the strait, underscoring Tehran’s commitment to controlling the area. Iran insists that the strait will only reopen under certain conditions, including an end to U.S. military aggression, lifting of a naval blockade, cessation of economic warfare, and release of Iranian assets. These demands have been conveyed to the U.S. through intermediaries but have not yet received a formal response from Washington.

U.S. President Donald Trump, however, has rebuffed Iran’s latest offer aimed at reopening the strait and resuming nuclear negotiations, according to reports by The Wall Street Journal. Trump reportedly views a resumption of U.S. airstrikes against Tehran as likely following the November midterm elections. U.S. officials, including Ambassador to the United Nations Michael Waltz, dismissed Tehran’s proposal as a strategic ploy lacking sincerity. Meanwhile, Iranian military leaders maintain a hardened stance, declaring that the war is ongoing and emphasizing their readiness to deliver further blows to their adversaries.

The conflict has caused significant disruptions to energy supplies, contributing to a global oil shock and inflationary pressures. Despite the relentless tensions, crude oil prices experienced a notable weekly decline, with West Texas Intermediate falling 2.3% to $92.41 per barrel and Brent crude down 2.1% to $104.32. These movements came as preliminary discussions occurred between Tehran and Washington on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, signaling fragile hopes for de-escalation amid persistent uncertainty.