Iran has suggested a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in 7 days

Iran has proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and recommencing discussions on its nuclear program within a week, contingent upon the United States lifting its naval blockade, waiving sanctions on Iranian oil sales, and observing a ceasefire that would include Lebanon. This suggestion was made by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during a private gathering on the sidelines of the U.N.

General Assembly in New York, according to an attendee. Trita Parsi, executive vice president of the Quincy Institute think tank, who was present, noted Araghchi's proposal aimed to benefit U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of November's midterm elections. The proposal mirrors a previous Memorandum of Understanding from June, but with a more expedited timeline.

However, the hardline factions within Iran's security forces may resist the moderate President Masoud Pezeshkian's concessions. The differing perspectives on Iran's motives, such as buying time for increased oil exports and alleviating economic hardship, remain uncertain. Qatar has been instrumental in mediating Iranian-U.S. talks at the U.N., and Pezeshkian met with Qatar's prime minister on Friday.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated openness to exchanging ideas and messages with Iran, pending further developments.