Iran has offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume negotiations over its nuclear programme within seven days if the United States lifts its naval blockade, waives sanctions on Iranian oil sales and observes a ceasefire extending to Lebanon.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi outlined the proposal during a private meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Thursday, according to an attendee.
Trita Parsi, executive vice-president of the Quincy Institute think tank, said Mr Araqchi suggested that a rapid agreement could benefit US President Donald Trump before November’s midterm elections.
There was no immediate response from Iran’s UN mission or other Iranian officials.
Iran offer to reopen Strait of Hormuz mirrors earlier agreement
The proposal closely resembles a memorandum of understanding reached in June, but sets out a much faster timetable. That earlier deal envisaged a 60-day interim period before collapsing as Iranian forces resumed attacks on shipping in the strait.
Mr Trump has said he is in no hurry to reach an agreement, despite high oil prices contributing to inflation and worsening cost-of-living pressures.
The proposal could also face resistance within Iran, where hardliners who dominate the security forces may reject compromises supported by more moderate figures such as President Masoud Pezeshkian.
“If Trump calculates this arrangement is worthwhile and can bring political benefit before the midterms and reduce gas prices, perhaps we’ll see flexibility not seen in previous weeks,” Mr Parsi said.
But he also pointed to “deep suspicion” over whether Iran might simply be seeking time to export more oil and ease its economic difficulties.
In a further sign of diplomatic activity, Mr Pezeshkian hosted Qatar’s prime minister on Friday. Qatar has acted as a key mediator, including during hours of indirect talks between Iran and the US at the UN this week.
It was not clear how long Mr Pezeshkian and Mr Araqchi would remain in the United States after the president addressed the annual gathering of world leaders on Wednesday.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday: “If there’s an opportunity to exchange ideas and messages, we will”.
