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[Iranian Foreign Ministry: Negotiations Have Made Progress but Remain Difficult] Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Baghae said on the 25th that negotiations between Iran and the United States have made some progress, but whether an agreement can be reached soon "depends on the United States." He reiterated that any hostile actions against Iran will be met with a response. Baghae made the remarks at a press conference in Tehran that day. He said that Iran and the United States are still exchanging information through Pakistani mediation channels. The recent progress is the result of several weeks of indirect negotiations, and the two sides are close to reaching a consensus on many issues, but the US position is "contradictory and constantly changing," which brings difficulties to the negotiation process. Baghae said that the focus of all parties is still on advancing the text of the memorandum of understanding. He emphasized that the Lebanese issue will be part of the potential memorandum of understanding. Regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, Baghae said that Iran's measures in the strait are in accordance with the framework of international law and are in response to US military actions and potential security threats. He emphasized that Iran is charging relevant vessels "navigation service fees," not "passage fees," and that Iran and Oman are pushing for the development of an agreement on safe passage of vessels to maintain the security of the strait and the marine environment. In this process, "the services provided and environmental protection work require certain financial support." Bagaé also stated that China has played a "constructive and positive role" in promoting the regional ceasefire and negotiation process. He said that China and Russia have maintained a positive stance at relevant UN Security Council meetings, and Iran has recently consulted with Chinese and Russian diplomats on the developments in the situation. (Xinhua)