Iran proposes seven-day plan to reopen Strait of Hormuz amid stalled diplomacy

In late September 2026, Iran proposed a seven-day plan to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, contingent upon the United States easing military pressure and lifting its blockade on Iranian ports. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi communicated the terms—which include the release of frozen assets, the end of hostilities on all fronts, and an end to the naval blockade—to U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff via mediators on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Despite "positive and constructive" indirect communications confirmed by White House officials, reports from the Wall Street Journal and Rik News indicate that the U.S. has rejected the ceasefire proposal. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed skepticism toward an immediate deal, signaling to his staff that he expects military operations against Iran to continue past the November midterm elections. While Iran remains open to dialogue based on earlier understandings from June, it has ruled out concessions regarding its nuclear program. Tensions remain high as Washington maintains that while diplomatic messages were exchanged, military options remain on the table to ensure the security of international shipping lanes.