Iran Awaits US Response to Hormuz Reopening Plan by Tuesday

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran expects to receive the United States' final response to its ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz reopening proposal by Tuesday, following meetings with Qatari mediators in New York on Monday. The indirect talks represent a renewed diplomatic effort after seven months of conflict that has disrupted global energy markets and caused significant economic damage to both countries.

Iran's plan, presented at the UN General Assembly, proposes that the United States release frozen Iranian assets, lift sanctions on Iranian oil, and end its naval blockade of Iranian ports within four to five days. In exchange, Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz—a critical waterway through which roughly 20 percent of the world's oil and gas supplies flowed before the war—and both sides would resume negotiations on Iran's nuclear program by the seventh day. The waterway was closed in February 2026 after the US and Israel launched joint military operations, and Iranian attacks on commercial vessels have since curtailed shipping and driven oil prices above $100 per barrel.

US President Donald Trump initially called Iran's proposal "unacceptable," but US officials told media outlets that indirect discussions continue and are described as "positive and constructive." However, a senior US official stated that no deal would be reached unless Iran's nuclear program is addressed, with the Trump administration willing to offer sanctions relief and release of frozen funds in exchange for concrete progress on nuclear issues. The two sides remain far apart on the timing of commitments and which side makes initial concessions. US officials also expressed skepticism about Iran's commitment to any agreement, citing the June memorandum of understanding that collapsed within days after Iran attacked commercial vessels in the strait.

Iran has rejected media reports claiming it would show flexibility on its nuclear program, insisting its conditions have not changed. Araghchi stated that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is the sole focus of current discussions and described Iran's conditions as "fair and logical." He told state media he would fly to Tehran but remained confident that Qatari and Pakistani mediators would convey any US response. Both countries have faced economic pressure—the US from elevated oil prices resulting from supply disruptions, and Iran from sanctions and the conflict's broader impact on its economy.