Iran’s Foreign Minister Calls for Negotiated Solution After Trump Rejects Hormuz Deal

NEW YORK — Iran’s foreign minister said on 27 September 2026 that only a negotiated solution could end the deadlock over a proposed deal to secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, after former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration rejected the agreement in 2025. The statement was made in a press briefing in Tehran, where the minister reiterated Iran’s willingness to engage in talks with Washington to resolve the dispute over oil transit and regional security.

Background of the Hormuz dispute

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway that connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, is a critical chokepoint for global oil traffic. In 2025, a U.S. administration proposal aimed to allow Iranian oil to pass through the strait under a set of security guarantees and monitoring mechanisms. The plan was intended to reduce the risk of accidental escalation and to provide a framework for the resumption of Iranian oil exports after the lifting of sanctions. However, the proposal was rejected by the Trump administration, citing concerns over Iran’s compliance with non‑proliferation norms and the lack of a comprehensive security framework.

Iran’s stance on negotiation

During the briefing, the foreign minister stated that the rejection of the deal had not altered Iran’s position that a negotiated settlement is the only viable path to de‑escalate tensions. He added that Iran remains open to dialogue and that the country would not pursue unilateral measures that could jeopardise regional stability. The minister’s remarks were echoed by senior officials in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who emphasized the need for a multilateral approach involving the United Nations and other regional stakeholders.

U.S. perspective and policy shift

After Trump’s departure from office, the Biden administration reviewed the 2025 proposal and issued a statement in early 2026 that it was “open to revisiting the framework” if Iran could demonstrate compliance with international obligations. The U.S. Department of State’s spokesperson said that any future negotiations would require a clear commitment from Iran to abide by the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) provisions and to halt nuclear enrichment activities beyond the 3.67% enrichment limit.

Implications for regional security

Analysts note that the Strait of Hormuz accounts for roughly 20% of global oil trade. Any disruption in the waterway could have significant economic repercussions for oil‑dependent economies worldwide. The recent statements from Tehran come at a time when several Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states have expressed concerns about the potential for a maritime conflict. The International Maritime Organization has called for “continued dialogue” to maintain safe navigation in the region.

International reactions

The European Union’s foreign policy chief issued a brief comment that the EU “remains committed to a diplomatic solution” and that it would support multilateral talks. Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council has scheduled a meeting for 10 October to discuss the situation, with the United States and Iran expected to present their positions.

Historical context of U.S.–Iran negotiations

The current dispute follows a series of diplomatic engagements over the past decade. In 2015, the JCPOA was signed, lifting many sanctions in exchange for limits on Iran’s nuclear program. The agreement was later abandoned by the United States in 2018, leading to a sharp increase in sanctions and a deterioration of relations. The 2025 Hormuz deal was the first major attempt by a U.S. administration to re‑engage with Iran on oil transit issues since the withdrawal.

Future outlook

Both sides have indicated that the path forward will require confidence‑building measures. Iran has offered to allow independent monitoring of its oil exports, while the United States has called for a verification regime that includes satellite surveillance and third‑party inspections. The outcome of the upcoming Security Council meeting will likely shape the next phase of negotiations.