Iran proposes 7-day plan to reopen Strait of Hormuz, awaits US response

Iran has put forth a proposal for a seven-day agreement to reopen the crucial Strait of Hormuz, contingent on the United States accepting its terms. The deal, detailed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi at the UN General Assembly in New York and conveyed via Qatari mediators, stipulates that Washington must lift its naval blockade on Iranian ports, waive sanctions on Iranian oil exports, release frozen Iranian funds, and commit to a ceasefire that includes Lebanon. If these conditions are met, the Strait would become accessible within a week, initiating broader discussions on Iran's nuclear program and a comprehensive ceasefire.

This latest Iranian overture echoes a previous interim agreement from June, which ultimately collapsed after Iran resumed attacks on shipping, though the current offer features an accelerated timeline. While U.S. officials acknowledge "positive and constructive" discussions are underway through intermediaries, reports indicate President Donald Trump has rejected the proposal. Trump reportedly expressed skepticism regarding Iran's commitment to its demands and suggested he anticipates renewed military action following the upcoming midterm elections.

The U.S. currently maintains a strong position in the Strait, having escorted a significant volume of oil through the passage, and therefore is reportedly not rushing to accept a deal. Iran's proposal, which would alleviate considerable economic pressure on Tehran, also aims to restart stalled nuclear negotiations. However, a senior Iranian official has indicated that Iran remains firm on its nuclear program and would not offer concessions even if the Hormuz deal is accepted.