Iran Hands Washington 'Strong and Rational' Response, Says Ball in America's Court

Iran's chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tuesday that Tehran has delivered a "strong and rational" response to Washington, stating "the ball is now in America's court to avoid war" and warning of an "unpredictable" military response to any new attack. Ghalibaf said Iran is "ready for battle with its finger on the trigger" in a televised address. Iran's armed forces chief Ali Abdollahi reiterated demands including a halt to fighting on all fronts, lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, and guarantees against future attacks. The statements follow renewed clashes in the strait after US strikes on Qeshm Island, which Washington called self-defense. President Donald Trump expressed optimism on Truth Social, noting oil prices are falling because "people feel there will be no war with Iran," adding "Iran wants a settlement as soon as possible. It could happen!" The developments coincide with US midterm elections Tuesday, where the Iran conflict and economic fallout pressure Republicans, while Qatari and Pakistani mediators continue efforts to bridge differences.