US President Donald Trump rejected a truce proposal from Iran aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping within seven days, a critical route through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas typically flows. The announcement came amid ongoing tensions and a stalemate between the two countries, nearly seven months into their conflict.
Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump dismissed Iran’s offer, stating that Tehran sought a deal because it was "losing so badly." He acknowledged a willingness to negotiate but said the terms proposed were unacceptable. The US president also asserted that the United States maintained substantial control over the strait, emphasizing the continued flow of oil through the waterway despite disruptions.
Iran’s proposal, as outlined by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during remarks at the United Nations in New York, centered on a comprehensive cessation of hostilities in the Middle East, including conflict in Lebanon and Yemen. Araghchi indicated that the agreement would follow conditions set forth in a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by the US and Iran in June, which included the release of frozen Iranian assets, lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil, and ending the US naval blockade on Iranian ports. According to Araghchi, if these conditions were met, Iran was prepared to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore normal maritime passage within a week.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, returning from the UN General Assembly, stated in a CBS News interview that the proposal had been developed in coordination with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Pezeshkian highlighted Iran’s commitment to the negotiation process but expressed a lack of trust in the United States based on past experiences. He also mentioned that Iran would allow UN nuclear inspectors into the country as part of efforts to ease tensions.
Despite Iran’s readiness to resume shipping through the strait under specified conditions, Trump remained skeptical of Iranian compliance. Reports citing US officials suggested that the president anticipated an escalation, including a potential renewal of bombing campaigns against Iranian targets. Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards spokesman Hossein Mohebi reaffirmed Tehran’s stance that hostilities would continue until its seven outlined demands were fully met, including an end to conflicts such as the war in Yemen.
The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed since the outbreak of hostilities in February, following reciprocal attacks by Iran on Israeli and US military bases and allied Gulf states, and corresponding strikes by the US. The closure has contributed to volatile global energy markets, further intensifying pressure on the US administration as it approaches upcoming congressional elections.
In parallel to the tensions around Hormuz, allied Houthi forces in Yemen have recently heightened attacks against Saudi oil installations near the Red Sea, opening a second front that affects another strategic maritime chokepoint, the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Saudi-led coalition forces reported intercepting ballistic missiles and drones launched by the Houthis, with Saudi Arabia seeking additional military support from the United States.
The impasse illustrates the complexities of achieving a lasting agreement in the region, as both sides maintain firm conditions and deep distrust against the backdrop of broader geopolitical conflicts. The outcome remains uncertain as negotiations stall and military activity continues.