Iran signals diplomatic opening for first time since outbreak of Middle East war
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed on March 31 that Tehran has engaged in direct and indirect messaging with Washington, marking the first official acknowledgment of such dialogue since the regional conflict began over a month ago.
In an exclusive statement to Al Jazeera, Araghchi revealed that communications have been maintained through the "Witkoff channel" and regional intermediaries. However, the Foreign Minister emphasized that these exchanges do not yet constitute formal negotiations between the two nations.
Market surge and economic optimism
The announcement triggered an immediate rally on global markets. Investors reacted positively to the prospect of de-escalation, leading to significant gains across all major US indices.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged 2.1% to reach 49,164.55 points. Simultaneously, the S&P 500 climbed 2.5% to 6,503.08, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite jumped 3.6%, closing at 21,533.15.
Conditions for regional stability
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed the diplomatic shift during a high-level phone call with European Council President António Costa. Pezeshkian stated that Iran possesses the "necessary will" to end the ongoing war with Israel and the US.
The President stipulated, however, that any lasting peace is contingent upon "essential requirements," specifically ironclad guarantees to prevent a recurrence of aggression against Iranian interests.
Defiance amid peace proposals
Despite the diplomatic opening, Tehran maintains a rigid military posture. The news comes as China and Pakistan jointly introduced a five-point peace plan aimed at halting hostilities in the region.
Minister Araghchi warned that while Iran did not initiate the conflict, its armed forces remain prepared for further escalation. Addressing rumors of a potential US ground operation, Araghchi struck a defiant note, stating that Iranian forces "are waiting" and possess the "considerable force" necessary to repel any intervention.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
