By Sello Lentsoane | NNA News                               (Photo Credit: Official News Agency IRNA)

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran is prepared to continue diplomatic engagement with the United States, provided what he described as Washington’s “maximalist” approach comes to an end.

Speaking during a phone call with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Pezeshkian said U.S. actions at sea, which he referred to as “maritime piracy” against Iranian ships, must be condemned and halted, according to the official news agency IRNA.

He also criticised what he described as “provocative” U.S. statements and measures, including the blockade of Iranian ports, saying such actions are “unacceptable and contrary to international laws and regulations.”

Pezeshkian said Iran remains committed to defending its rights, while expressing readiness to pursue diplomacy for what he described as a “fair” solution that ensures stability in the region.

He added that progress would depend on the United States ending its “maximalist approach and provocative actions.”

The Iranian president attributed insecurity in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz to what he described as U.S. and Israeli “aggressive actions,” including attacks on Iranian infrastructure and commercial vessels.

He called on other countries to adopt a “clear and firm” stance in condemning actions against Iranian shipping.

For her part, Takaichi said Japan values its “friendly and stable” relations with Iran and emphasised the importance of diplomacy in managing tensions.

She also requested safe passage for Japanese vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and expressed hope that negotiations between Iran and the United States would resume and lead to an agreement.

The developments follow a ceasefire that took effect on April 8 after 40 days of fighting involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Subsequent talks held in Islamabad did not result in a breakthrough, and tensions have persisted in the region.