Trump rejects Iran's Hormuz-for-Blockade proposal, insists nuclear deal must come first

Apr 29, 2026

President Trump rejected Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for lifting the U.S. naval blockade, insisting that Tehran must first agree to a comprehensive nuclear deal. Iran had offered through Pakistani mediators to reopen the strategic waterway—through which one-fifth of the world's oil and LNG normally flows—while deferring nuclear discussions until after the war ends. Trump characterized the blockade as choking Iran and more effective than bombing, while CENTCOM prepared additional strike plans. The standoff has killed thousands and sent global energy prices soaring, with European allies losing patience and questioning Trump's ability to resolve the crisis he initiated.

Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz

▪Iran proposed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz on the condition that the United States lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports and agrees to end the war.
▪Donald Trump announced a blockade on Iranian ports and ships days after the ceasefire began on April 8.
▪The United States naval blockade on Iranian ports restricts Tehran's ability to export oil and cuts off a crucial source of Iran's revenue.

US rejection and insistence on nuclear deal priority

▪Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Monday that Iran's proposal was better than what the United States thought Iran was going to submit.
▪The ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran has killed thousands and sent global energy prices soaring.
▪Donald Trump met with top security advisers on Monday to discuss the Iranian proposal.

International pressure and diplomatic responses

▪German Chancellor Merz stated on Monday that the Iranians are negotiating very skilfully.
▪Analyst Negar Mortazavi stated that Iran's proposal looks reasonable as the situation in the Strait of Hormuz has created a global crisis.
▪Mohamed Elmasry of the Doha Institute of Graduate Studies stated that Europeans are losing patience with the prolonged negotiations between the United States and Iran.

Perspective of Donald Trump and the Trump administration

▪Donald Trump stated that Iran is choking like a stuffed pig due to the naval blockade.
▪Donald Trump characterized the naval blockade on Iranian ports as somewhat more effective than bombing.
▪Donald Trump insists that Iran must agree to a comprehensive deal ending its nuclear program before the United States lifts the naval blockade on Iranian ports.