Iran says Hormuz can reopen in seven days if US agrees to newest deal

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on Friday that Tehran had extended an offer to the United States, proposing a comprehensive seven-day plan to reopen the strategically important Strait of Hormuz for international shipping. This proposal was presented by Iran through Qatar during talks with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff on Tuesday.

Araghchi reiterated this plan during a UN conference on Friday, stating that should the necessary conditions be met, the strait could be reopened within seven days, restoring normal maritime passage. He emphasized that Iran rejects coercion, threats, and intimidation and will not cede its sovereign rights under duress. Araghchi stated, "I can tell you if there is seriousness in the US side to come to a deal and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, everything is now prepared."

Earlier reports suggest that the new plan includes a cessation of hostilities across the Middle East for a week, encompassing Lebanon, the release of Iranian assets estimated at $12 billion or more, the lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil, and the removal of the US naval blockade. Additionally, the Revolutionary Guards spokesperson, Hossein Mohebi, disclosed that ending hostilities in Yemen is part of Iran's demands.

This follows a June memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the conflict, reopening the strait, and initiating talks on Iran's nuclear program. However, the agreement was short-lived after Iran fired on commercial ships allegedly deviating from their approved route, leading to retaliation from the United States.