WASHINGTON: The United States and Iran are exploring a phased arrangement aimed at easing their conflict, with discussions reportedly focusing on reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for an end to Washington’s economic blockade of Tehran.
US and Iranian negotiators have been holding discussions in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Sources familiar with the talks said one proposal under consideration would see Iran restore navigation through the strategic waterway while the United States lifts its economic blockade.
The Strait of Hormuz has become a key point of negotiations because of its importance to global energy supplies. Iran is seeking relief from economic pressure, while Washington wants commercial shipping to resume through the strategically important route.
A senior Iranian official said a possible way forward would be to resolve the crisis in stages, beginning with the lifting of the blockade and reopening of the strait. The proposal could also involve discussions over access to Iranian assets that are currently frozen.
However, the negotiations remain difficult, with neither side willing to give up its leverage first. Iranian officials have continued to warn that Tehran is preparing for a possible resumption of hostilities if diplomatic efforts fail.
Iran has also reportedly shown flexibility over its demand for transit fees on ships using the Strait of Hormuz, with regional sources saying the issue could be separated from the main agreement to facilitate progress on reopening the waterway.
US President Donald Trump has previously indicated that a broader agreement with Iran could come after the November 3 midterm elections. Iranian negotiators, meanwhile, have presented a wide range of demands as part of the discussions.
The Gulf states are closely monitoring the negotiations and have called for freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Regional governments have also urged Washington and Tehran to prevent further escalation and resolve the conflict through diplomacy.
The talks remain exploratory, and no final agreement has been reached. The proposed phased arrangement would seek to address the immediate issues of the economic blockade and the reopening of the strategic waterway before negotiations move to broader disputes between Washington and Tehran.
