Iranian Minister Calls Negotiation the Only Path After Trump Rejects Hormuz Deal

WASHINGTON — Iran’s Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said on Thursday that the only way to end the long‑standing conflict with the United States is through negotiation, after former President Donald Trump rejected a Hormuz deal that would have lifted sanctions in exchange for limits on Iran’s nuclear programme. The statement comes amid renewed pressure on Iran to comply with the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and the United Nations Security Council resolution that imposed sanctions on the country’s nuclear activities.

Trump’s Rejection of the Hormuz Deal

In a statement released by the White House’s press office on 24 September, the former president’s administration had declined to pursue a new agreement that would have allowed Iran to resume shipping through the Strait of Hormuz while easing sanctions. The deal, which was drafted by the U.S. and Iran in late 2025, aimed to secure a “mutual confidence” framework for nuclear compliance and to open the critical maritime corridor that carries about 20% of the world’s oil supply.

Amirabdollahian said the rejection was a “significant setback” for the diplomatic process. He added that the Iranian government remains committed to a negotiated solution that would address security concerns on both sides. The minister’s remarks were made during a press briefing at the Iranian Embassy in Washington, where he also highlighted the need for “mutual respect and good faith” in future talks.

UN Ambassador’s Critique

United Nations Ambassador Linda S. Waltz, speaking at a briefing in Geneva, said that Iran had not been negotiating in good faith to end the conflict. She cited the lack of transparency in Iran’s nuclear program and the continued use of the Strait of Hormuz as a leverage point. Waltz’s comments were reported by The Guardian on 27 September.

Waltz noted that the United Nations had been “watching the situation with concern” and that the international community was ready to engage if Iran showed willingness to comply with the JCPOA’s verification mechanisms. She also warned that any unilateral move by Iran could jeopardise the fragile balance in the region.

Reactions from the International Community

Common Dreams reported that Iranian officials have repeatedly called for a “comprehensive, negotiated solution” that would lift sanctions while ensuring that Iran’s nuclear programme remains strictly civilian. The outlet also highlighted that the U.S. has been reluctant to re‑enter the JCPOA, citing concerns over Iran’s missile programme and regional behaviour.

In the weeks leading up to the announcement, the U.S. Treasury Department had announced a new round of sanctions targeting Iranian oil exports, citing the country’s continued development of missile technology. The sanctions were aimed at curbing Iran’s ability to finance its nuclear programme and to pressure the government into compliance.

Implications for the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Any escalation in the U.S.-Iran standoff could threaten the security of shipping lanes and increase costs for global energy markets. The U.S. Department of State has warned that a breakdown in negotiations could lead to a “security vacuum” that would affect international trade.

Iran’s foreign ministry has stated that it will continue to defend its sovereignty over the Strait and that it will not allow external forces to dictate its maritime policies. The ministry also reiterated that it is open to dialogue with the United Nations and other international bodies to resolve the dispute.

Historical Context

The Hormuz deal was first proposed in 2025 by the U.S. and Iran as a way to ease tensions after the U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018. The proposal included a phased lifting of sanctions in exchange for Iran’s compliance with nuclear verification. However, the deal was rejected by the Trump administration, which cited concerns over Iran’s regional behaviour and missile programme.

Since the rejection, the U.S. has maintained a hard line, imposing additional sanctions and threatening to use force if Iran does not comply with international norms. Iran, meanwhile, has continued to develop its nuclear infrastructure, citing it as a defensive measure against perceived external threats.

Future Outlook

Amirabdollahian’s statement signals a potential shift in Iran’s diplomatic approach, emphasizing negotiation over confrontation. Whether the United States will respond to this call remains uncertain, as the current administration has not yet issued a formal statement on the Hormuz deal.

The United Nations and other international actors are monitoring the situation closely, with the hope that a negotiated settlement can be reached before further sanctions or military actions are taken. The next steps will likely involve a series of back‑channel talks, potentially mediated by neutral parties.