Iran has put forward a proposal to the United States that could see the critical Strait of Hormuz reopened within seven days, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on September 25, 2026. Speaking to reporters at the United Nations in New York, Araghchi stated that the reopening is conditional upon the fulfillment of terms outlined in a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in June.

This offer comes amidst ongoing tensions and a conflict that has significantly disrupted global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) transport, was blocked following air strikes by the US and Israel on Iran on February 28, 2026. Iran's subsequent response included attacks on Israel and US bases in the Gulf, as well as the closure of the strait.

Araghchi indicated that the proposal was delivered to the US via Qatar and emphasized that the "necessary conditions" for reopening the strait are detailed in the June MOU. He did not specify the exact steps Iran expects from the US but suggested they were not new and were already part of the prior agreement. The closure of the strait, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil and LNG passed before the conflict, has led to substantial volatility in energy prices.

A US official acknowledged that "positive discussions" were occurring through mediators, including on nuclear issues, but also conveyed that the US "is not in a rush" given its control over the strait. The ongoing conflict and its economic impact, particularly on Iran, have intensified pressure on US President Donald Trump to find a resolution, especially with US Congressional elections approaching in November.

The MOU, signed on June 18, aimed to establish a ceasefire and partially reopen the Strait of Hormuz. It included provisions for Iran to refrain from pursuing nuclear weapons, for the US, Iran, and their allies to cease military operations, and for the end of a US naval blockade and sanctions relief. Additionally, Iran was to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels and discuss future shipping arrangements with Oman.

However, the agreement faltered shortly after its signing, with both sides resuming military actions. Iran has since targeted vessels it deemed to be crossing the strait without authorization, while the US has conducted strikes on Iranian sites and tankers. The US has also maintained a blockade on Iranian ports, severely impacting Iran's economy.

Despite the blockade, President Trump has claimed success in maintaining oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping data from Kpler, a commodities analytics firm, indicates an average of about 18 transits per day recently, with some days seeing as few as nine vessels. The report also noted actions by Yemen's Houthis, identified as allies of Iran, though their specific role in the current context remains unclear.

The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz remains a crucial point of contention and negotiation, with the current Iranian offer presenting a potential pathway towards de-escalation and the restoration of vital global trade routes, provided the conditions stipulated in the MOU are met by the United States.