Iran's security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, has revealed Tehran's latest conditions for ending its ongoing "war" with the United States, stating that these stipulations have been conveyed to Washington via Qatari mediators. The announcement comes as regional tensions escalate, pushing oil prices above $100 per barrel.

Rezaei's remarks underscore a hardening stance, with Iran asserting it is now "more battle-hardened" than at the outset of the conflict, which began in late February following joint US-Israeli strikes. While large-scale fighting has been on pause for months, the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran that expired in August has seen a subsequent rise in attacks, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.

The security chief stated that Iran "will confront America with greater force, and with more numerous and more painful strikes." He emphasized that Iran's conditions are designed to achieve peace on "all fronts," specifically mentioning Lebanon, and to secure the release of billions of dollars in frozen Iranian funds.

Broader implications of these demands include the continued effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran and a US blockade on Iranian southern ports. The disruption to vital shipping routes, including the Red Sea, has already impacted global energy markets, with oil prices crossing the $100 mark. This situation highlights the delicate balance between Iran's diplomatic overtures and its military preparedness.

Iran's conditions to end the war, as detailed by Rezaei, are comprehensive. They include a complete cessation of hostilities on all fronts, particularly in Lebanon. Furthermore, Tehran demands the release of its frozen financial assets, which amount to billions of US dollars. An end to the naval blockade imposed on Iranian ports is also a key requirement.

Additional stipulations involve an end to what Iran perceives as US interference in its internal affairs and the termination of US cooperation with groups considered "opponents of our revolution." Finally, Iran insists on an end to all US attacks on its territory. Rezaei warned that "Trump's threats will not achieve any results" and that Iran is "prepared for a decisive war."

Rezaei's statements were described by Al Jazeera's Tohid Asadi, reporting from Tehran, as a "two-sided, twofold message" reflecting Iran's consistent approach throughout the conflict: maintaining openness to diplomacy while simultaneously preparing for sustained conflict. This dual strategy aims to pressure the US into accepting Tehran's terms.

Reiterating Tehran's firm position, Iran's parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also stated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until the US fulfills its commitments and "the legitimate rights of the Iranian nation are recognised." This unified message from senior Iranian officials signals a determined stance in the ongoing diplomatic and military standoff.