Iran Proposes Deal to Reopen Strait of Hormuz Within Seven Days

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced at the United Nations in New York that Iran has submitted a proposal to the United States to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a week. Speaking to reporters, Araghchi stated that maritime passage could be restored in seven days provided specific conditions are satisfied, noting that the choice now rests with Washington. The proposal was transmitted to the US through Qatari mediators.

Terms and Framework of the Iranian Offer

According to Araghchi, the required US actions are detailed in a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on June 18. The original agreement sought a ceasefire, nuclear non-proliferation commitments from Iran, an end to military operations across all fronts, sanctions relief, and the lifting of the US naval blockade. It also stipulated that Iran would arrange safe commercial passage through the strait and negotiate shipping terms with Oman. However, the MOU collapsed shortly after signing when hostilities resumed.

A US official confirmed that positive indirect discussions regarding nuclear issues and other matters are ongoing through intermediaries. However, the official noted that the US is not in a rush, citing its strong position and control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Regional Conflict and Maritime Disruptions

The closure of the waterway followed US and Israeli air strikes on Iran on February 28, which prompted Iranian retaliatory attacks on Israel, US Gulf bases, and regional allies. Prior to the war, approximately 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas passed through the strait. Recent tracking data from commodities analytics firm Kpler shows daily transits dropping to an average of about 18, with some days falling as low as nine vessels.

The broader maritime security situation has been further complicated by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis, who recently captured strategic Red Sea coastal areas including the port of Mokha near the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Following Houthi attacks on Saudi oil installations, US media reported that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman requested military assistance from the US.

Escalating Rhetoric Ahead of US Elections

The diplomatic proposal comes amid heightened rhetoric from US President Donald Trump, who recently raised the prospect of reaching a deal after the November Congressional elections or swiftly annihilating the Islamic Republic. Araghchi rejected the threats, stating that Iran does not accept coercion or intimidation and asserting that peace cannot be established through threats of destruction.