Iran Offers to Reopen Strait of Hormuz and Resume Nuclear Talks in Seven Days

Iran has proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resuming nuclear talks within seven days if the U.S. lifts its naval blockade, waives oil sanctions, and observes a ceasefire including Lebanon. The offer was detailed Thursday by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in New York. The proposal resembles a June memorandum but with an accelerated timetable, and Araghchi suggested a quick deal could aid President Trump before November's midterms. Attendee Trita Parsi noted "deep suspicion" that Iran may be buying time to ease its economic pain. Trump has said he is in no rush, though high oil prices fuel inflation. Qatar is mediating, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. remains open to exchanging ideas.