The White House has confirmed that it is reviewing a new Iranian proposal aimed at unblocking the Strait of Hormuz.
This follows a major economic disruption sparked by a US and Israeli offensive two months ago. While a ceasefire is in place, diplomatic efforts to fully reopen the strategic waterway have remained stalled.
US President Trump discussed the proposal with security advisors after Tehran sent “written messages” through Pakistan detailing its requirements for nuclear and maritime negotiations.
White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt noted the document is being actively discussed.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Fox News the terms were “better than what we thought,” though he remains cautious about Iran’s true intentions. He stressed that any deal must permanently block Iran’s path to a nuclear weapon.
On the international stage, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Russia, where President Vladimir Putin pledged support.
Araghchi accused the US of making “excessive demands” that derailed previous talks. Despite these high-level meetings, the humanitarian situation in Tehran remains dire. Locals describe a state of “complete economic collapse” as both the Iranian blockade of the strait and the US blockade of Iranian ports continue to choke trade and inflate global prices.
Domestically, Trump is navigating rising fuel costs and public opposition to the war ahead of the November midterm elections. While a planned trip by US envoys was scrapped, Trump signaled that communication remains open if Tehran chooses to call.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high in Lebanon. Despite an extended truce, the Israeli military has targeted Hezbollah sites in response to what it calls imminent threats.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has refused direct negotiations, leading Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz to warn that the group is “playing with fire.” Army Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir suggested that military engagement on multiple fronts will likely persist through 2026.