Iran signals Hormuz Strait reopening if US lifts sanctions

Iran has signaled its willingness to reopen the strategically vital Hormuz Strait to international shipping, contingent on the United States lifting sanctions and pursuing diplomatic solutions to regional conflicts. The move follows a high-profile diplomatic push ahead of the UN General Debate, where both U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian are set to address the assembly for the first time since U.S. military operations against Iran began in February 2024. Since the collapse of a previous interim nuclear deal in July, there have been no direct bilateral talks between Washington and Tehran, though Iran has repeatedly proposed dialogue via intermediaries, most recently on September 16th. Iran’s latest offer was conveyed through a senior official to U.S. officials, who have indicated openness to discussions if they perceive a path to meaningful progress. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that Washington remains open to negotiations, particularly if Iran demonstrates a willingness to achieve positive outcomes.