Trump rejects Iranian proposal to open Hormuz and end fighting

On the day of the UN General Assembly in New York, Iran proposed to the United States to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and cease hostilities in the Middle East. Via Qatari mediators, Iran conveyed the proposal to the Americans, suggesting it could restore the strategic waterway and cease regional fighting within seven days. However, US President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters at the White House, firmly rejected the Iranian proposal, stating, “I reject their proposal...

I rejected their deal.” He attributed their desire to open the Hormuz Strait to their dire financial situation, which depends on revenue from the strait. Despite Trump's expressed interest in making deals, he emphasized that Iran would benefit from reopening the strait due to the significant decline in shipping through the waterway, a result of the US economic blockade.

The US has maintained control over the Strait of Hormuz, but Trump privately expressed skepticism about Iran's willingness to meet his demands. He hinted at a potential resumption of bombings after the November US midterm elections, according to unnamed US officials. Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, during a UN press conference, confirmed the proposed deal would initiate a seven-day countdown to the reopening of the strait and a temporary halt to regional conflict.

He stated that readiness for a deal was on the US side. If the US agreed, broader talks could commence on mutually agreed subjects, potentially including discussions on Iran's nuclear program. However, a senior Iranian official warned that Iran would not compromise on its nuclear rights, including uranium enrichment or the export of highly enriched uranium.