Iran Demands US Lift Blockade for Strait of Hormuz Reopening
A new proposal from Iran seeks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart nuclear talks within seven days, provided certain conditions are met. The plan was presented by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during a private meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. He stated that if the US removes its naval blockade, eases sanctions on Iranian oil sales, and agrees to a ceasefire including Lebanon, the Strait would be open within seven days and talks would restart.
A previous agreement reached in June included a 60-day period but ultimately broke down as fighting and attacks on shipping resumed. There has been no immediate response from Iran's UN mission or other officials confirming the details of Araghchi's proposal. However, Trita Parsi, executive vice president of the Quincy Institute, who attended the meeting, noted that Araghchi suggested a quick agreement could benefit US President Donald Trump ahead of the November midterm elections.
The proposal raises concerns within Iran about whether hard-line elements in the security establishment would accept compromises supported by more moderate figures, including President Masoud Pezeshkian. Parsi also expressed deep suspicion surrounding the plan, particularly worries that Iran could use it to export more oil and reduce pressure from sanctions on its economy.