Iran says it could reopen Strait of Hormuz if US eases military pressure
NEW YORK: Iran has said it could reopen the strategically important Strait of Hormuz within seven days if the United States eases military pressure and lifts its blockade on Iranian ports, according to a senior Iranian official.
The statement came on September 22 as Iran’s delegation attended the United Nations General Assembly in New York and diplomatic efforts surrounding the conflict remained active.
The Iranian official said Tehran was prepared to discuss an agreement to end hostilities through mediators if Washington formally indicated that it wanted to pursue a diplomatic solution.
Iran’s position was conveyed as tensions remained high over the Strait of Hormuz, a major maritime route through which a significant share of global oil shipments normally passes.
The official said Iran’s delegation in New York had authority to revive diplomatic discussions with the United States. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was also travelling to New York for the UN General Assembly, although the official said he did not plan to meet US President Donald Trump.
According to the Iranian official, Tehran had already delivered a proposal to the United States through mediators on September 16. The proposal relates to possible arrangements for ending hostilities.
Iran’s latest statement links the reopening of the waterway to a reduction in US military pressure and the lifting of the blockade on Iranian ports.
The Strait of Hormuz is strategically important for global energy markets because oil and other energy shipments from the Persian Gulf region pass through the waterway.
Any prolonged disruption can affect shipping routes, transportation costs and energy markets. Countries that depend heavily on imported energy can also face wider economic consequences from sustained disruptions.
Iran’s statement therefore places the Strait at the centre of the ongoing diplomatic discussions.
The United Nations General Assembly is bringing representatives from several countries to New York this week, providing an opportunity for diplomatic contacts through direct and indirect channels.
The Iranian official said Tehran would welcome a return to diplomacy if the United States takes what Iran considers tangible steps towards negotiations.
The developments remain subject to further discussions between the parties and the positions taken by the United States and other countries involved in the crisis.
