Iran Proposes Reopening Strait of Hormuz in Exchange for End to U.S. Blockade

Iran has submitted a new diplomatic proposal through Pakistani mediators, offering to relinquish control over the Strait of Hormuz. In return, Tehran is demanding that the United States lift its current naval blockade and end the ongoing conflict. Notably, the proposal suggests postponing discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program, a move intended to prioritize immediate maritime and economic stability. President Trump addressed the proposal on Saturday, characterizing it as a significant improvement over previous offers. However, the President reiterated that his administration's primary objective remains the total elimination of Iran's nuclear weapons capabilities. Trump expressed skepticism toward any deal that leaves Iran's current uranium stockpiles intact, insisting that the removal of highly enriched uranium reserves is a prerequisite for a final agreement. While diplomatic channels remain open, military tensions persist on the ground. In southern Lebanon, a Hezbollah drone strike killed one Israeli soldier and wounded six others, marking a serious violation of the three-week ceasefire extension. This incident occurs as Israeli forces maintain a buffer zone and continue structural demolitions in the region. Meanwhile, the global energy market remains under pressure as the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts critical shipping lanes and heightens oil price volatility.