CNN: Trump unlikely to accept Iran proposal on Strait of Hormuz

Donald Trump has signalled he is unlikely to accept Iran’s latest proposal aimed at de-escalating tensions, after Tehran suggested reopening the Strait of Hormuz while postponing negotiations over its nuclear program.

According to two people familiar with the matter, cited by CNN, Trump expressed his position during a Monday meeting with senior national security officials, where Iran was a central topic. One of the sources said the president is not inclined to accept the proposal, which was conveyed to Washington in recent days.

Officials noted that reopening the strategically vital waterway without addressing concerns about Iran’s nuclear enrichment activities or its stockpile of near-bomb-grade uranium would remove a key source of US leverage in ongoing discussions.

At the same time, keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed would likely sustain elevated global energy prices, which have already contributed to a spike in gasoline costs in the United States.

It remained unclear following the meeting what steps Trump might take next. US officials have also expressed concern about perceived divisions within Iran’s leadership and uncertainty over who holds ultimate decision-making authority regarding a potential agreement.

In public remarks, Trump has voiced scepticism about resuming the US bombing campaign, which is currently on hold after he extended a ceasefire last week.

The White House has not provided details about the substance of the negotiations.

“These are sensitive diplomatic discussions, and the U.S. will not negotiate through the press. As the President has said, the United States holds the cards and will only make a deal that puts the American people first, never allowing Iran to have a nuclear weapon,” assistant press secretary Olivia Wales said in a statement to CNN.

By Tamilla Hasanova