Iran is reportedly considering easing its control over the Strait of Hormuz while leaving its nuclear program untouched, according to two regional officials briefed on the matter on Monday. The country’s Foreign Minister is currently in Russia seeking consultations on the conflicts involving Israel and the United States.
The officials revealed that Iran is proposing the U.S. to end its blockade as part of the plan. However, this proposal, transmitted through Pakistan, is not likely to be supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, who insists on Iran’s nuclear program cessation as a condition for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring a lasting truce.
President Trump stated in an interview with Fox News that the U.S. holds the upper hand in negotiations and invited Iran to engage in talks. The initial report on Iran’s proposal came from Axios, with Iran’s Foreign Minister arriving in St. Petersburg for discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin after visits to Pakistan and Oman.
The ongoing standoff between Iran and the U.S. in the critical Strait of Hormuz persists despite the ceasefire, impacting oil prices globally. Iran is using diplomatic channels through Pakistan to revive talks with the U.S., although President Trump suggested talks could be conducted over the phone.
Iran’s Foreign Minister highlighted the U.S.’s rigid stance as the reason for the delay in negotiations, blaming Washington’s excessive demands for the breakdown of previous talks. Trump has expressed doubts about Iran’s leadership and its ability to reach a mutual agreement.
Efforts by the U.S. to advance discussions with Iran faced obstacles as Iran sought an end to the blockade before resuming talks. The economic ramifications of the conflict are escalating, disrupting global shipments of oil, natural gas, and other essential goods due to the restricted passage through the strategic strait.
Iran is pushing for Oman’s support in establishing a toll collection mechanism for vessels transiting the strait, aiming to resolve the impasse. Mediators from Pakistan are mediating to bridge the wide gap between the U.S. and Iran, as Trump extended the ceasefire but a lasting resolution remains elusive.
Both Iran and the U.S. have continued to exchange military threats, with Iran warning of a strong response to aggressive U.S. actions. Trump has emphasized Iran’s nuclear disarmament as a key condition for any agreement, citing concerns over Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile potentially reaching weapons-grade levels.
As casualties mount in the conflict, efforts to reach a peaceful resolution have faced setbacks, with indirect talks and diplomatic channels strained by mutual distrust and conflicting demands. The situation remains tense, with the fate of the Strait of Hormuz and the global economy hanging in the balance.
