Iran Demands Hormuz Control as US Deal Negotiations Stall

Iran has proposed a framework to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz while postponing nuclear negotiations, demanding the United States lift its blockade of Iranian ports first [1]. However, Tehran’s Supreme National Security Council maintains it will control traffic through the strategic waterway until a final agreement is reached [3]. The diplomatic push comes amid a fragile ceasefire and recent retaliatory military strikes between the two nations [2].

Key takeaways

• Iran proposed ending its control over the Strait of Hormuz and the war, but requested the US lift its naval blockade and delay nuclear talks [1].
• Tehran stated it will continue to control traffic in the strait until a deal is finalized, despite offers to reopen it [3].
• A potential US memorandum of understanding reportedly seeks unrestricted shipping, the removal of sea mines, and a commitment from Iran not to build nuclear weapons [2].
• Pakistan is leading mediation efforts, delivering proposals between Washington and Tehran, though US President Donald Trump remains skeptical of sending envoys to travel [1, 3].

Conflicting Proposals and Regional Mediation

The Iranian proposal, reportedly coordinated through Pakistan-led intermediaries, focuses on resolving the crisis over the strait and the US blockade before addressing nuclear issues [1]. According to officials familiar with the matter, Iran has demanded that Washington eliminate "obstacles," specifically the naval blockade, and provide compensation, a revised legal framework for the strait, and assurances against future military intervention [1]. Conversely, the US remains focused on forcing Iran to scale back its nuclear ambitions, missile development, and ties to regional groups, illustrating the "wide gaps" dividing the nations [1].

While Iran reviews new proposals delivered by Pakistan's army chief, the US is reportedly considering a separate memorandum of understanding [2, 3]. This document, which US President Donald Trump has requested amendments to, would reportedly extend the ceasefire for 60 days and mandate that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz be "unrestricted," with Iran required to remove sea mines within 30 days [2]. The draft also reportedly includes a commitment from Iran not to work toward building nuclear weapons, though Iranian state media claimed it includes the release of $12 billion in frozen assets—a claim the White House dismissed as a "fabrication" [2].

Military Escalation Amid Diplomatic Uncertainty

Diplomatic efforts are unfolding alongside continued hostilities, including a recent retaliatory strike by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on a base used by US forces [2]. The IRGC stated the attack was in response to US aggression on a communications tower, while the US said its prior strikes targeted Iranian air defences and drones threatening ships [2]. Kuwait condemned