20/06/2026 16:14 - Internacionales
Un líder político en contexto de negociaciones internacionales, con banderas de naciones en el fondo, representando un momento histórico de diálogo diplomático en Medio Oriente
Mojtaba Khamenei, who assumed the role of Supreme Leader of Iran in March 2026 following the death of his father Ali Khamenei, made his first public statement since the conflict began on June 19, 2026. Through a message broadcast on his Telegram channel, he formally authorized direct negotiations with the United States.
Khamenei explained his decision: "Based on the commitment given to me by the honorable President, acting in his capacity as president of the Supreme National Security Council, in his own name and that of the other members, to safeguard the rights of the Iranian nation and the Axis of Resistance, and with his explicit acceptance of responsibility for doing so, I authorized it."
For context: The Supreme Leader in Iran holds ultimate authority over all state matters, including foreign policy and military decisions. This makes any authorization from this position historically significant.
On June 17, 2026, a 14-point memorandum of understanding was signed between the United States and Iran. Key provisions include:
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ceasefire of hostilities between both nations |
| 2 | Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days |
| 3 | Reconstruction fund of USD 300 billion |
| 4 | 60 days to negotiate a definitive agreement |
However, technical negotiations scheduled for June 21, 2026 in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, were indefinitely postponed following Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon.
On June 20, 2026, Iran's military command announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz as a "first step" in response to the United States' alleged breach of the agreement following Israeli attacks in Lebanon. This decision triggered a global crisis.
Context for international readers: The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway between Oman and Iran that connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the world's most critical oil transit chokepoints, with approximately 20% of global petroleum consumption passing through it daily.
Vessels blocked
Sailors affected
Brent oil (USD/barrel)
The conflict that began on February 28, 2026 has resulted in more than 3,700 deaths. Recent developments include:
The Axis of Resistance mentioned in the Supreme Leader's statement refers to a regional alliance led by Iran that includes Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, the Syrian government, and various Iraqi and Yemeni militias. Understanding this alliance is essential for comprehending Iran's regional influence.
According to analysts cited by Axios, Khamenei seeks to maintain a degree of "political shielding" that allows him to claim credit for negotiation successes or shift responsibility for potential failure onto President Masoud Pezeshkian.
The Supreme Leader had not appeared publicly since being wounded in an Israeli attack on his father's residence during the early days of the war, which generated speculation about his health and governing capacity.
For context: Masoud Pezeshkian is a reformist politician who won Iran's presidential election. His willingness to negotiate with the West represents a shift from hardline positions, though all major decisions still require Supreme Leader approval.
Delegations from the United States (including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner), Qatar, and Pakistan are already in Bürgenstock, Switzerland. US Vice President JD Vance canceled his planned trip to join the negotiations.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi departed for Switzerland to "demand compliance with the commitments" of the memorandum, which Tehran claims was violated by Israel's attacks on Lebanon.
Switzerland has historically been a neutral ground for international negotiations, and Bürgenstock specifically has hosted numerous diplomatic summits, including talks on Ukraine and various Middle Eastern conflicts.
Sources: Infobae, Infobae/EFE
Alfredo S. Quiroga
