Iran offers to reopen Hormuz within two days if US meets terms
Iran says it could reopen the Strait of Hormuz within two days if Washington accepts its conditions, a senior Iranian official said on Monday, 2 Nov. Tehran has blockaded the strait since the war began in February, and the waterway normally carries one-fifth of global oil consumption. Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said messages were being exchanged with the US through mediators, and that the outcome depends on Washington accepting Iran's demands. Oil prices fell more than six per cent on the day, according to market reports. US President Donald Trump has threatened Iran at a campaign rally ahead of the midterm elections.
Key facts
- Iran's conditions include ending the war on all fronts, unfreezing its overseas assets and lifting oil sanctions.
- Ships would have to use a route agreed by Iran and Oman and travel under Iranian supervision.
- Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi wants US troop numbers in the region reduced and recent sanctions removed.
- Qatar and Pakistan are playing an active mediating role in the indirect talks, according to Araghchi.
- US Vice-President J.D. Vance reportedly sent a letter to Iranian national security chief Mohsen Rezaei about possible new talks.
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Why it matters
The strait's closure keeps global energy supplies and prices under pressure while the talks remain unresolved.
What changed
First published from Middle East Eye, CNA, Asharq Al-Awsat, The Hindu and Africanews