Trump rejects Iran’s proposal to reopen Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions
According to a report by Axios, United States President Donald Trump has rejected a proposal from Tehran that would have reopened the Strait of Hormuz, choosing instead to continue a naval blockade aimed at increasing pressure on Iran over its nuclear program.
Trump reportedly believes the blockade is a more effective strategy than military strikes. He told Axios that Iran is “being choked” economically and warned that conditions would only worsen for Tehran if it does not comply with US demands.
He also claimed that Iran is seeking relief from the blockade on the strategically vital waterway, offering to postpone nuclear negotiations in exchange. However, Trump dismissed this offer, insisting that preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons remains his top priority.
Economic Pressure and Threats of Escalation
Trump argued that the blockade has severely damaged Iran’s economy, claiming that its inability to export oil has pushed its infrastructure “close to exploding.”
Despite relying on economic pressure, reports suggest the US military has also prepared contingency plans. According to Axios sources, US Central Command has developed options for a “short and powerful” airstrike campaign if Iran refuses to make concessions. However, Trump has not authorized any direct military action so far.
He has continued to publicly pressure Iran, urging it to reach a nuclear agreement and warning on social media that there is “no more Mr. Nice Guy.” In a post on Truth Social, he said Iran “can’t get their act together” and should act quickly to avoid further consequences. The post included an image of Trump in a military-style pose with explosions in the background, symbolizing escalation.
Military and Diplomatic Developments
Earlier reports indicate that the US and Israel carried out a joint offensive against Iran on February 28, after which Iran responded with strikes targeting US-linked positions in the region, particularly in Gulf countries.
A ceasefire was reportedly brokered on April 8 with the help of Pakistan, followed by negotiations in Islamabad on April 11–12. However, those talks failed to produce a final agreement. Trump later stated that the ceasefire had been temporarily extended at Pakistan’s request, pending further proposals from Iran.
Iran’s latest diplomatic proposal reportedly suggested reopening the Strait of Hormuz while postponing nuclear discussions until later stages. Trump rejected this approach, insisting that nuclear concerns must be addressed immediately.
Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical shipping routes for oil and gas. Since the conflict escalated, Iran has reportedly restricted most shipping activity through the strait, allowing only limited passage. The US, meanwhile, has intensified pressure on Iranian maritime movements as part of the broader blockade strategy.
Iran’s Nuclear Position and Economic Strain
Iran is seeking recognition of its right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes. However, concerns remain in Washington due to Iran’s stockpile of approximately 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60%, which could potentially be refined further for weapons use.
Despite economic pressure, Iranian officials have claimed the country can withstand the blockade by relying on alternative trade routes. They have also stated that Iran does not consider the conflict to be over.
Continued Conflict and Regional Impact
The ongoing US-Israeli confrontation with Iran has reportedly caused widespread casualties, including thousands of civilian deaths in Iran and Lebanon. It has also disrupted global energy markets and international shipping routes.
Iran’s envoy to the United Nations has condemned Israeli military actions in Gaza and the West Bank, accusing Israel of violating ceasefires, expanding settlements, and worsening the humanitarian crisis. He called for full accountability for alleged violations of international law and demanded a permanent ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access.
Internal Power Shift in Iran
Reports also suggest significant changes inside Iran’s political structure due to wartime conditions. Traditionally, Iran’s supreme leader held ultimate authority, but recent developments indicate a shift toward a more decentralized system dominated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and security institutions.
Following reported leadership losses and wartime pressure, decision-making power is said to have concentrated within Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and military leadership. Analysts suggest that Iran’s current leadership is more collective and security-driven rather than centered on a single authority.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has acted as the main diplomatic representative in talks with the United States, while senior IRGC officials are believed to play a key role in strategic decisions behind the scenes.
Experts say this shift has strengthened hardline influence within Iran’s government, potentially leading to a more confrontational foreign policy stance and tighter internal control.
Stalled Diplomacy and Ongoing Standoff
Iran has reportedly proposed a phased negotiation process, suggesting that nuclear issues be addressed only after the conflict ends and maritime disputes are resolved. However, the United States insists that nuclear discussions must begin immediately.
Analysts believe both sides are currently unwilling to compromise, as each expects time to strengthen its position—Iran through strategic leverage over shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz, and the US through continued economic pressure.
Despite sustained pressure, Iran has not shown signs of internal collapse or willingness to surrender, and no major internal opposition movement has emerged.