Iran digs in on seven conditions to reopen Strait of Hormuz after US rejection

Iran has refused to budge on its demands for reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz despite US President Donald Trump's rejection of the proposal. The waterway is of global importance due to its role in the world's energy supply. The current conflict between the US and Iran erupted nearly seven months ago following deadly strikes on Iran.

Iran's conditions for reopening the strait include a cessation of all hostilities in the Middle East, the return to the terms of a ceasefire deal that fell apart, release of frozen Iranian assets, lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil, and an end to the US naval blockade. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that these conditions must be met before any progress can be made. He reiterated Iran's stance that they would not back down from their rights.

US President Trump, however, stated he rejects Iran's truce deal, saying Iran is trying to exploit a situation where they are "losing badly." His ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, accused Iran of demanding too much in exchange for talks.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards seized an American submarine drone in the strait, claiming it was used for espionage. Iran has also seized an American submarine drone in the strait, alleging it was used for espionage purposes.

The US and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding in June aimed at ending the war, reopening the strait, and initiating talks on Iran's nuclear program. However, the deal collapsed shortly after when Iran fired upon commercial ships in the strait, alleging they deviated from approved routes. Iran requires ships to obtain authorization before passage, citing security and sovereignty concerns.

At the UN, Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan expressed concern that the international community has been absent in maintaining the safety and openness of the strait, which is crucial for global energy security. Iran's top negotiator, Abbas Araghchi, proposed a seven-day plan to reopen the strait if certain conditions are met, but the ball now is in the US court.