Iran has offered a new proposal to the US, suggesting the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within seven days in exchange for the easing of sanctions on Iranian ports. According to a senior Iranian official, the proposal was conveyed to the US through mediators before the UN General Assembly. The official stated that Tehran is seeking a formal signal from Washington indicating its intention to return to diplomatic channels.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, has been largely closed since the US and Israel launched a war on Iran on February 28. Although partially reopened, the number of vessels passing through the strait has been significantly reduced, with only 20 ships crossing per day last week, according to MarineTraffic data. The Iranian proposal aims to revive diplomatic efforts, with the UN General Assembly providing a platform for discussions.
The Iranian delegation to the UN General Assembly has been authorized to renew diplomatic contacts with the US, exploring the possibility of a potential agreement to halt hostilities. The proposal involves the US easing pressure on Iranian coastlines and ports, with a mutually agreed timeline for progress if negotiations yield breakthroughs. This development has sparked hopes for renewed diplomatic efforts to end the war.
The easing of tensions has positively impacted global markets, with oil prices declining sharply for the fifth consecutive session to reach a two-week low. US stock futures have seen modest gains, while European stocks have also risen, with the Stoxx 600 index up over 0.5%. The market reaction reflects optimism about the potential for diplomatic resolution.
A CNN poll has revealed divisions within Republican support for President Donald Trump's handling of the Iran war. The survey also showed growing opposition to the conflict, with 71% of American adults expressing dissatisfaction with Trump's foreign policy approach, his lowest rating in CNN polls during his presidency.
The poll found that most Americans believe Trump's decisions on foreign policy have harmed the country's global standing. Only 26% of respondents expressed satisfaction with Trump's handling of the Iran situation, down from 33% a month after the war began. A significant majority of Americans doubt Trump has a clear plan to address the situation in Iran.
The survey also highlighted concerns about the war's duration, with 78% of respondents believing it will be a long conflict. Most Americans think the war has damaged US interests more than it has benefited them, with 97% of Democrats and 82% of Independents opposing the war.
Key points
- Iran proposes to reopen Strait of Hormuz in 7 days if US eases sanctions
- US and Israel launched war on Iran on February 28
- 71% of American adults express dissatisfaction with Trump's foreign policy approach
