Iran Urges Negotiation After Trump Rejects Hormuz Reopening Plan

WASHINGTON — Iran’s foreign minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, said on Sunday that only a negotiated solution could end the deadlock over the Strait of Hormuz after President‑elect Donald Trump rejected a seven‑day plan to restore the waterway’s free passage. The rejection came after the U.S. administration announced it would not comply with the Iranian proposal, which had been presented on 24 September 2026.

Background of the Hormuz dispute

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow channel between Oman and Iran, is a critical chokepoint for global oil traffic. Since the U.S. withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018, the United States has imposed a series of sanctions on Iran, citing concerns over its nuclear programme and regional behaviour. In response, Iran has periodically threatened to close the strait, a move that would disrupt the flow of about 20 percent of the world’s oil supply.

Trump’s rejection of the roadmap

On 26 September, Al Jazeera reported that the Trump administration had rejected Iran’s seven‑day roadmap, which outlined a series of steps to restore the strait’s free passage. The plan included a phased lifting of sanctions and a joint monitoring mechanism for oil traffic. The U.S. said it would not accept the proposal because it did not address the broader security concerns it had about Iran’s regional activities.

Iran’s response

Amirabdollahian said in a televised address that “only a negotiated solution can bring an end to the conflict.” He added that Iran remains willing to engage in talks but would not compromise on its core demands. The statement was made after the U.S. decision, which the Iranian government described as a “missed opportunity” to de‑escalate tensions in the region.

Implications for regional security

Experts say the standoff could affect shipping lanes and oil prices. The International Maritime Organization has warned that any closure of the strait would trigger a global market response. The U.S. State Department has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the free flow of commerce through the strait, while also demanding that Iran lift its nuclear‑related sanctions.

International reactions

European diplomats have called for a return to dialogue. The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said the EU would support a multilateral approach to resolve the dispute. Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council has not yet taken a formal stance, but several member states have urged both sides to avoid escalation.

Future prospects

Amirabdollahian’s statement comes as the U.S. and Iran are preparing for a series of diplomatic talks in Geneva, scheduled for early October. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has indicated that it will present a revised proposal that addresses U.S. security concerns while preserving its demand for sanctions relief. The U.S. has not yet confirmed whether it will participate in the upcoming talks.