US and Iran explore phased deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz and lift blockade

US and Iranian negotiators in New York are exploring a phased deal to end their war, involving Tehran reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for Washington lifting its economic blockade, though neither side is willing to move first. Iran seeks relief from a strangling blockade and may drop its demand for transit tolls, while Washington wants free passage restored for oil shipping. A staged arrangement is the most workable option, but a previous understanding collapsed in July, and President Trump may delay a fuller agreement until after November's midterm elections. Gulf leaders pressed Trump for post-midterms strategy clarity, and 80 countries at the UN called for full restoration of Gulf navigation. Separately, the UAE suspended Iranian airline flights, aligning with US sanctions, as Iran prepares for possible renewed conflict.