Iran proposes 7-day deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz

Iran has submitted a seven-day plan through mediators to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for US concessions, with negotiations to resume afterward.

• Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the plan requires a seven-day halt to Middle East hostilities, release of at least $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets, lifting oil sanctions, and ending the US naval blockade.
• Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz on the seventh day if Washington meets the terms, he said, with talks resuming immediately afterward.
• Araghchi said he awaits a US response and that China supports the proposal.
• US and Iranian representatives held their first talks in months on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly; a White House official called the mediated discussions "positive and constructive."
• Araghchi said the conditions include approval of a sea corridor previously agreed with Oman.
• The plan aims to implement the June US-Iran memorandum of understanding, which expired in August.
• Reuters cited sources saying the two sides are exploring a gradual exit path from the war.
• Iran presented the seven-day proposal to the US through Qatari intermediaries during the UN General Assembly.
• Iran submitted the plan directly to US special envoy Steve Witkoff in addition to Qatari intermediaries.
• The terms require Washington to order Israel to end its military attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon.
• Iranian diplomats voiced skepticism the US will follow through, citing failed talks and past strikes.
• Araghchi's proposal also calls for resuming nuclear talks within seven days of the US meeting its conditions, Reuters reported.