Iran Delivers Seven Demands to US, Threatens to Keep Strait of Hormuz Closed

The conflict between Iran and the United States has persisted for seven months, with periodic escalations and no clear resolution in sight. US President Donald Trump has frequently mentioned the possibility of ending the war soon, but also warned of major military decisions ahead.

During this period, US military actions and Iranian countermeasures have kept tensions high in the region, especially around vital waterways like the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials have repeatedly linked their willingness to negotiate to the lifting of sanctions and other concrete US actions.

By mid-September 2026, President Trump began signaling a desire to end the conflict, mentioning new deals and upcoming talks with Gulf leaders. However, he also publicly weighed a potential escalation, including the option to "annihilate" Iran.

On September 18 and 19, Iranian officials announced that they had formally conveyed their terms for ending the war to the US via Qatari intermediaries. Iran's security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, and other senior figures made clear that Tehran would not consider reopening talks without meeting these conditions.

The demands include ending the war, unfreezing Iranian funds, and lifting the US naval blockade, among others. Iranian leaders warned that the Strait of Hormuz would stay closed until their requirements are fulfilled. They also issued explicit warnings of decisive action if the US did not respond positively.

Meanwhile, President Trump reiterated that he was in "deciding mode" and that very big decisions were imminent. The sense of urgency was heightened by reports of new military actions in the Strait of Hormuz and continued threats from both sides.

Iran is currently awaiting a formal response from President Trump to its seven demands. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz remains in effect, causing significant disruption to global oil shipments and increasing regional tensions.

Both sides have made public threats of escalation if their respective positions are not addressed. The situation is tense, with the risk of renewed fighting looming if diplomatic efforts stall or fail.

The key question now is whether President Trump will accept, reject, or attempt to negotiate Iran's conditions. Any response could determine whether the conflict moves toward resolution or further escalation. The continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the threat of new military actions remain major concerns for the region and the world.