US President Donald Trump has rejected Iran's latest proposal regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports from CNN.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that Tehran's initiative suggested postponing discussions on its nuclear program to a later stage. However, US officials believe that reopening the strategic waterway without resolving nuclear issues would significantly weaken Washington's leverage and pressure on the Iranian administration.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the most strategic transit points in the global energy market, was closed to maritime traffic by Iran following joint US and Israeli strikes on February 28. This decision led to a dramatic 65 percent increase in global oil prices compared to the pre-war period. While Pakistan-mediated negotiations took place following an April 8 ceasefire agreement, the talks concluded without a resolution.
On April 13, US President Donald Trump decided to impose a naval blockade against Iran, leading to interventions against Iran-affiliated vessels entering the strait. Although Tehran announced it would allow the passage of commercial ships following the April 17 ceasefire in Lebanon, restrictions were reinstated due to the continuation of the US blockade. Tensions have since escalated, with the US seizing several Iranian merchant ships in the Sea of Oman and the Indian Ocean, while Tehran responded by seizing several vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, including those with links to Israel.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global energy security, as approximately one-fifth of the world's total oil consumption passes through the narrow waterway daily. The ongoing maritime standoff continues to impact international shipping routes and global economic stability, as Azerbaijan and other regional stakeholders closely monitor the security situation in the Middle East.
