Iran has proposed to reopen the critical Strait of Hormuz within a week if the United States agrees to reduce military pressure and lift its blockade on Iranian ports, according to a senior Iranian official. This offer, conveyed to the U.S. through mediators on September 16, calls for a formal commitment to resolve the ongoing dispute through diplomatic channels.
The proposal emerges amid rising tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for global energy shipments. Iran has warned it may retaliate if the U.S. resumes military operations in the region. Tehran has linked the reopening of this strategic waterway directly to a reduction in U.S. military activities.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is currently in New York for the United Nations General Assembly, where Tehran has signaled its readiness for renewed diplomatic engagement with Washington. While no direct meeting is scheduled between President Pezeshkian and U.S. President Donald Trump, the Iranian delegation has the authority to pursue diplomatic discussions.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that Washington is open to dialogue with Iranian representatives during the UN meetings, although no specific engagements have been planned. Rubio emphasized that any talks must align with efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
The developments underscore the need for both nations to seek a diplomatic path to ease hostilities and address broader concerns, including Iran’s nuclear program and the security of the Strait of Hormuz.