White House Examines Iran's Hormuz Proposal; US-Israel Offensive Continues

The White House is examining Iran's latest proposal to unblock the Strait of Hormuz, two months after a US and Israeli offensive impacted the global economy. Peace talks between the US and Iran to end the Middle East war and reopen the strait have been inconclusive since a ceasefire began.

US President Donald Trump discussed the Iranian proposal with security advisors after Tehran sent «written messages» via Pakistan, outlining red lines on nuclear issues and the Strait of Hormuz. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt confirmed the proposal is «being discussed.» Secretary of State Marco Rubio called it «better than what we thought they were going to submit» but questioned its sincerity, emphasizing any deal must prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi blamed Washington for failed peace talks during a visit to Russia, where President Vladimir Putin pledged support. Araghchi stated US demands caused previous negotiations to fail. Trump, however, canceled a planned trip by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, stating Iran could call the US for talks. Iran's UN envoy said Tehran needs guarantees against further US-Israel attacks before offering security assurances in the Gulf.

The war, which began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, has led to Iran blockading Hormuz, cutting oil, gas, and fertilizer flows, and causing price surges. The US responded with a blockade of Iranian ports. Domestically, Trump faces pressure over rising fuel prices ahead of November midterm elections. Iran's Revolutionary Guards intend to maintain their control of the strait. Ebrahim Azizi, head of Iran's national security commission, proposed a law making the armed forces the overseeing authority, with levies in Iranian rial. The UN's maritime agency head, Arsenio Dominguez, and Rubio rejected transit fees, with Rubio stating Iran cannot normalize controlling an international waterway.

Violence continues on the Lebanese front despite an extended ceasefire between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah. Beirut's health ministry reported Israel killed four people and wounded 51, including three children. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem rejected direct negotiations with Israel as a «grave sin.» The Israeli military began hitting Hezbollah targets, citing imminent threats. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz warned Hezbollah is «playing with fire.» Lebanese President Joseph Aoun seeks an end to the war with Israel, but Israeli army chief Eyal Zamir anticipates 2026 will be «another year of fighting.»