International Desk

Iran has proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz within seven days if it reaches an agreement with the United States, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said. He said the proposal was based on the terms of a memorandum of understanding reached in June.

Speaking to reporters in New York on Friday (September 25), Araghchi said a deal could be reached if the necessary conditions were met, allowing normal maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to resume within seven days.

Asked about Iran’s proposal, a US official told Reuters that positive discussions were underway through mediating countries. The talks also include the issue of Iran’s nuclear programme.

Araghchi said the conditions presented to the United States were not new and had already been included in the June memorandum of understanding. However, he did not specify exactly what conditions Washington would have to meet.

What Was Included in the June Understanding

The 14-point memorandum of understanding reached on June 18 covered a range of issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, a ceasefire and maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

One of the key provisions was that Iran would not develop or acquire nuclear weapons. The understanding also included provisions concerning an end to fighting between Iran, the United States and its allies on various fronts, the lifting of naval blockades against Iran and the easing of sanctions.

In return, Iran was expected to allow safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and engage in future discussions with Oman over the management of maritime traffic through the strategic waterway.

However, the understanding effectively collapsed after attacks and counterattacks resumed between the two sides.

Energy Crisis Around the Strait of Hormuz

Before the conflict began, the Strait of Hormuz served as one of the world’s most important energy transit routes, carrying a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies. Its closure triggered major volatility in international energy markets.

Iran has said it took action against some vessels in the Strait for travelling outside authorised routes. Reports, meanwhile, said the United States had carried out strikes on Iranian areas near the Strait and intensified its naval blockade.

Against this backdrop, Iran’s latest proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz has given fresh momentum to diplomatic discussions with the United States over the strategic waterway.