US President Donald Trump has rejected Iran’s seven-day proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume nuclear talks, according to multiple reports citing US officials and Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi. The plan, conveyed to Washington via Qatar, outlined steps for a week-long ceasefire and the lifting of US sanctions in exchange for the reopening of the strategically vital waterway.
Iran’s proposal included a seven-day timeline to restore maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with initial steps beginning within four to five days if the US met its conditions. Araghchi stated that the necessary US actions were already outlined in a June memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two nations. The proposal also called for a cessation of hostilities across the Middle East, including Lebanon, and the release of frozen Iranian assets estimated at $12 billion.
A senior US official confirmed that Washington is engaged in positive, indirect discussions with Iran through mediators, including talks on nuclear issues. However, Trump has privately indicated to aides that he expects US bombing of Iran to resume after the November midterm elections, citing skepticism over Iran’s compliance with his demands. The US has also reiterated its control over the Strait of Hormuz, stating it is not in a rush to finalize a deal.
Iran’s conditions for reopening Hormuz
Under the proposal, Iran outlined the following conditions for the US to meet within seven days:
- Lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, which has significantly impacted Iran’s economy by restricting oil exports.
- Waiving sanctions on Iranian oil sales, a key demand given the economic strain caused by existing restrictions.
- Observing a ceasefire that includes Lebanon, where Iran-backed groups have been active.
- Releasing frozen Iranian assets worth at least $12 billion, as confirmed by Araghchi.
Araghchi emphasized that Iran would not surrender its sovereign rights under pressure and that the choice to accept the proposal now rests with the US. He added that if the US administration demonstrates seriousness in reaching a deal, Iran is prepared to act immediately.
US response and internal dynamics
While US officials described the discussions as constructive, Trump has publicly maintained a hardline stance. In a speech at the UN General Assembly, he warned that he may ‘annihilate’ Iran if a deal to end the war is not reached. The US has also continued to enforce its naval blockade, redirecting 122 commercial vessels to ensure compliance as of September 25.
A senior Iranian official told Reuters that Iran will show no flexibility over its nuclear program, even if the US accepts the proposal. The official stated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until all of Iran’s conditions are met. This position underscores the deep divisions between the two sides, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Regional and global implications
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, has caused wild fluctuations in energy prices and increased pressure on the US to resolve the conflict. Before the war, approximately 20% of the world’s traded oil passed through the strait daily. Iran’s disruption of the waterway has emerged as its primary bargaining tool in negotiations with the US.
Qatar has played a key role in mediating between Iran and the US, facilitating the transmission of the proposal. The involvement of mediators reflects the broader regional dynamics at play, including the role of Gulf allies and international stakeholders in the conflict.
Background and escalation timeline
The current proposal follows a seven-month war between Iran and the US, which began after US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28. Iran responded by attacking US bases in the Gulf, its Arab allies, and blocking the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict has since escalated, with Iran-backed Houthi militias in Yemen launching missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia.
In June, the US and Iran signed an MOU outlining a plan to end the conflict, but the agreement collapsed after Iran attacked commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and the US reinstated its naval blockade. The latest proposal represents a renewed attempt to restart negotiations, though its immediate rejection by Trump has cast doubt on its prospects for success.
Next steps and potential outcomes
With the US midterm elections approaching on November 3, both sides face increasing pressure to resolve the conflict. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has expressed hope that a deal can be reached before the elections, though the US has not indicated a similar urgency. The outcome of the proposal remains uncertain, with Trump’s rejection signaling a potential return to military action in the near future.
The US has also highlighted its strong position in controlling the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting that it sees no immediate need to concede to Iran’s demands. However, the economic and geopolitical stakes remain high, with global energy markets and regional stability hanging in the balance.