Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also raised Tehran’s conditions regarding the Strait of Hormuz during talks with US envoy Steve Witkoff. According to the Iranian side, the conditions include lifting the US naval blockade, releasing Iran’s frozen assets and ending the war on all fronts. The Iranian delegation has also been authorised to advance the negotiations in New York.
Gulf countries have also stepped up diplomatic efforts over the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar said it is working with Pakistan to create a channel for talks between Tehran and Washington. Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan and Turkey have also supported dialogue and diplomacy.
In New York, Araghchi met Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump held a meeting with leaders of Gulf countries. Trump said the United States is listening to all sides and that talks aimed at reaching an agreement with Iran could move forward.
However, alongside the diplomatic efforts, tough statements from both sides have continued. During his address to the United Nations, Trump called for increased pressure on Iran and later urged Tehran to make a decision soon.
Iran has also sent clear signals that the Strait of Hormuz remains a key issue in the negotiations. Iranian Parliament Deputy Speaker Ali Nikzad said the talks are now linked to the Strait of Hormuz and that Iran will not back down on the issue.
The diplomatic activity in New York has therefore placed the Strait of Hormuz at the centre of the Iran-US talks. Iran has indicated that the Strait could be reopened within seven days, but only if the United States first reduces military pressure and accepts conditions including the lifting of the blockade of Iranian ports.
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