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Iran denies it asked Trump not to strike or agreed to deal to split control of Hormuz

The Times of Israel · back to the audit

Iranian semi-official news agencies on Sunday denied US President Donald Trump's claim hours earlier that Tehran had asked the US to hold off on any attack, and also negated reports that it had agreed to a deal that would divide control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Mehr, citing military officials, called the allegation 'nothing but a new lie' and said the armed forces were 'on high alert and ready for any eventuality.'

Kayhan said Trump 'backed away from his positions once again, after about a week of boasting and threats,' claiming an agreement was close; Mehr added that Trump 'presented his retreat to the world as a favor.'

Fars quoted a member of the country's negotiating team calling the Israeli media report 'false,' and saying 'as long as the United States maintains its hostile actions, the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed.'

Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen: 'if Iran attempts to renew its nuclear program or advance its ballistic missile industries, we will be there,' and 'Iran held off on attacking us, because they are deterred, something that highlights Israel's standing in the Middle East.'

Iran's acting defense minister, Brig. Gen. Majid Ebn Al-Reza, called US threats 'psychological and cognitive warfare' but said Iran would boost preparedness and deterrence, per Press TV.