Tehran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that only a "negotiated solution" can resolve the conflict between the US and Iran, following President Donald Trump's rejection of a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump described Iran's proposal as "not acceptable" and claimed that Tehran sought to reopen the strait for commercial shipping within seven days due to significant losses.
In a Telegram post, Araghchi acknowledged Trump's rejection but indicated that Iran would await a "definitive" official response from the US. He noted that Trump had previously made contradictory statements. Araghchi mentioned that the conditions for reopening the strait were consistent with a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the US and Iran in June.
Iran raised the issue of reopening the strait and ending hostilities during discussions at the UN General Assembly in New York. The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed since the onset of conflict in February, impacting global oil supply.
Trump stated, "I'm rejecting their deal," asserting that the US has "total control" of the strait, with significant oil traffic contributing to rising global oil prices and increased fuel costs for consumers. Araghchi responded that Trump has made both positive and contradictory statements, and Iran is waiting for mediators to convey a definitive US position.
Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, attending the UN General Assembly, emphasized the need to overcome distrust created by the war for successful negotiations. He expressed Iran's openness to discussing the MOU's implementation in stages, contingent on the US demonstrating it does not intend to overthrow the Iranian government. Pezeshkian criticized the US for resuming military actions, stating that it undermines the potential for dialogue.
Oman, acting as a mediator, called for continued dialogue among all parties to resolve the crisis. Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi urged cooperation to ensure navigation safety in the strategic waterway.
Trump's rejection of the proposal was supported by US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker, who characterized Iran's offer as "half measures". Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted that US economic sanctions are impacting Iran, with Turkey, Oman, and the UAE halting flights from Iranian airlines and some banks ceasing transactions with Iran. The Trump administration's economic strategy, termed "Operation Economic Outcast", aims to pressure Tehran to cease attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. However, some economists question the effectiveness of the sanctions, particularly regarding Iran's major trading partners, including China, which has continued to engage in trade with Tehran despite US sanctions.