IRAN OFFERS SEVEN-DAY PLAN TO REOPEN STRAIT OF HORMUZ

September 25, 2026

NEW YORK: Iran has proposed reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz within seven days if the United States lifts its naval blockade, waives sanctions on Iranian oil exports and agrees to a ceasefire covering the wider region, including Lebanon. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi outlined the proposal on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Under the proposal, Iran would also resume negotiations over its nuclear programme. The offer represents an accelerated version of a memorandum of understanding reached between Washington and Tehran in June, which had envisaged a 60-day interim arrangement but subsequently collapsed as hostilities and attacks on shipping resumed.

Iran has reportedly conveyed the proposal to the United States through intermediaries. Earlier, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran could reopen the waterway within seven days if Washington reduced military pressure and lifted its blockade of Iranian ports.

The Strait of Hormuz has become a central issue in diplomatic efforts to end the conflict because of its importance to global energy shipments. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington remained open to exchanging ideas and messages, while President Donald Trump has indicated that he is not in a hurry to reach an agreement.

Qatar has continued to play a mediating role, with Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani meeting Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in New York. The latest proposal comes as both sides weigh the economic and strategic consequences of prolonged disruption around the Strait of Hormuz.