US President Donald Trump has reportedly rejected Iran’s proposal for a seven-day ceasefire aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, according to The Wall Street Journal, which cited unnamed US officials.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the proposal would allow normal maritime traffic through the strategic waterway within one week, provided the United States takes several steps, including releasing $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets, lifting oil sanctions and ending the US naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Araghchi also called for an end to all hostilities, including fighting in Lebanon, during the seven-day period. He said Iran could reopen the Strait of Hormuz after the US fulfils the conditions, with negotiations on a broader agreement beginning on the seventh day.
The US government has not officially announced a response to the proposal. However, US officials cited by The Wall Street Journal said Trump was sceptical about whether Tehran would meet Washington’s demands, particularly those concerning Iran’s nuclear programme and unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the reported rejection, diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran remain ongoing through intermediaries, including Qatar. US and Iranian representatives also held mediated discussions in New York during the UN General Assembly.
Analysts say the standoff could either lead to further negotiations or renewed military confrontation. According to officials cited by The Wall Street Journal, Trump has discussed the possibility of another bombing campaign against Iran after the US midterm elections in November.
Trump has also said he believes a deal to end the conflict could be reached after the elections, leaving the next phase of the US-Iran confrontation uncertain.
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