Iran Says Policy Will Not Change as Brent Crude Stays Near $115

Iranian officials stated on Sunday that the country's foreign policy will remain constant regardless of whether President Donald Trump orders new military strikes. This declaration coincided with global oil markets holding steady, as Brent crude traded near $115 per barrel in early Monday trading.

The tension escalated after Trump suggested the United States might resume attacks on Iran. In an interview with Fox News, he described his choice as deciding between finishing the conflict or making a deal. He referenced the joint U.S.-Israeli campaign that began on February 28 and claimed the U.S. currently controls the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts speculate that new strikes could follow the midterm elections scheduled for Tuesday.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi addressed the situation at a televised event in Tehran. He said that the prospect of war has not altered the government's thinking. "Whether there is war or not, our policies remain the same," Araghchi said. He added that Washington and Israel had attempted similar actions twice before and would see no different result. Spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed that indirect contacts with the U.S. continue through intermediaries, even though direct talks have stalled.

Energy markets reacted to supply concerns amid the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. The U.K. navy's Maritime Trade Operations center reported that a tanker leaving the Strait of Hormuz was struck by an unknown projectile on Friday. The vessel was disabled, but the crew was safe. Iran claimed responsibility for hitting at least four tankers near the strait on Thursday, a claim Trump disputed by accusing Tehran of fabricating attacks to influence prices.

Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation are underway. Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman, Pakistani army chief General Asim Munir, and Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin traveled to Tehran on Monday. They met with Iranian security chief Mohsen Rezaei and other officials. Saudi Deputy Minister for Public Diplomacy Rayed Krimly said the visit supports mediation efforts led by Qatar and Pakistan.

Violence continued in Yemen, where the Saudi-led coalition intercepted a ballistic missile aimed at Riyadh. The Houthis claimed they struck the capital's international airport and oil pumping stations. In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Iran might attack to disrupt the upcoming elections. Defense Minister Israel Katz dismissed reports of a conflict between Netanyahu and army chief Eyal Zamir as baseless.

Iran's foreign ministry stated that the outcome of Tuesday's U.S. elections will not change Tehran's approach. The country remains engaged in indirect diplomatic channels while preparing for potential further military action in the region.