Tehran Demands US Establish Peace in Lebanon and Unfreeze Assets

Iran’s Ambassador to Belarus, Alireza Sanei, stated that Tehran has conveyed specific demands to the United States aimed at establishing regional peace and security, particularly in Lebanon. In early May, Iran submitted a 14-point proposal to Washington through Islamabad as a counter to a previous US nine-point initiative. Key demands include the immediate cessation of war, the unfreezing of Iranian assets held in banks across various countries, and an end to what Tehran describes as US maritime piracy and naval blockades. Sanei criticized US President Donald Trump for openly admitting to seizing tankers and profiting from oil, while also threatening the use of nuclear weapons against Iran. The ambassador highlighted the lack of international protest or UN Security Council action against such US statements. Additionally, Iran insists that transit rules in the Strait of Hormuz must adhere to new Iranian security requirements and fee structures, rejecting a return to pre-war conditions. This diplomatic maneuver underscores escalating tensions and Iran's attempt to leverage diplomatic channels to address economic sanctions and military pressures.