Under-pressure Araghchi defends Iran's war diplomacy

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi defended his diplomatic efforts to end the conflict with the United States during a grueling three-hour session with lawmakers from Iran's parliament on Wednesday. The assembly, which could potentially vote on his potential impeachment, questioned Araghchi over allegations of exceeding his authority by meeting with US officials in New York without Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei's approval.

Parliamentarians also highlighted growing public anxiety regarding Iran's unity and cohesion, according to state media. This latest indication of internal political discord stems from the ongoing war and the assassination of key figures like Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Araghchi reassured the assembly that Iran's delegation at the UN General Assembly in New York had effectively conveyed Iran's positions with eloquence and authority. He further asserted that his team had strictly adhered to Iran's instructions.

Araghchi proposed a seven-day plan, contingent on Iran's conditions being met, which involves reopening the Strait of Hormuz. However, US President Donald Trump has rejected Iran's offer. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed Iran's claim, stating that Iran had "lost complete control" of the strait, with crude exports reaching 18.3 million barrels per day on September 30 - a number similar to the pre-war average of 18 million barrels per day.

Rubio warned of "crippling sanctions" and a "total and complete free fall" in Iran's economy, predicting that it could reach levels unseen in recent history.