On September 25, 2026, Iran presented a new proposal for reopening the Strait of Hormuz during a meeting at the United Nations. Iranian officials stated that this proposal depends on the response from the United States and has been conveyed through intermediaries from Qatar.
Iran's Proposed Conditions
The core of this proposal does not differ significantly from previous agreements. Iran has set key conditions including the lifting of the U.S. maritime blockade on Iranian ports, the lifting of sanctions on Iran's oil sales, and adherence to a ceasefire with Iran. This ceasefire also includes Lebanon.
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Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, announced as an additional incentive that Iran will resume its negotiations with the United States regarding its military program seven days after accepting the agreement. However, another senior Iranian official has stated that Iran will show no flexibility regarding its nuclear program, even if the U.S. accepts Iran's proposal.
Analysis of the Situation in the Strait of Hormuz
Iran's message today was released after Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian, told the media on September 24 that he hopes an agreement to end hostilities will be reached before the U.S. midterm elections on November 3. Former U.S. President Donald Trump had previously stated that an agreement would be reached after the elections, and Iran is awaiting the outcome of the voting.
While the White House has not immediately responded to Iran's statements, it had previously indicated that U.S. officials have had positive and constructive discussions with intermediaries regarding the Iran war. Meanwhile, Saudi officials have expressed skepticism about recent efforts for an agreement.
The U.S. Central Command has also stated that the Strait of Hormuz is open; however, at least four ships have encountered incidents in recent days. Reports of fires and ship breakages have emerged, and there are casualties among the crew. The exact number of ships passing through is difficult to determine as most vessels have currently turned off their AIS signals for "dark" passage.
According to Kpler data, this week, crude oil flow from the Strait of Hormuz reached 33.7 million barrels. Additionally, reports indicate an increase in the volume of liquefied natural gas transportation through Qatar to the highest level in the past two months.
The International Maritime Organization has reported 85 confirmed incidents as of September 24, including 24 cases of sailor fatalities. However, the exact number of injured or trapped sailors in the Persian Gulf is unclear.
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