
Iran reviews U.S. proposal as Trump pressures Tehran to reopen Strait of Hormuz
Iran said Thursday it is reviewing the latest American proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, as U.S. President Donald Trump intensified pressure on Tehran by warning of renewed bombing unless a deal is reached that includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping.
The diplomatic tensions unfolded alongside fresh military and maritime incidents in the Gulf region, further raising concerns about stability in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Tehran also denied accusations that it was responsible for an explosion aboard the Panama-flagged bulk carrier HMM Namu, which caught fire earlier this week while traveling through the Strait of Hormuz with 24 crew members onboard.
In a statement issued Thursday, Iran’s embassy in Seoul said it “firmly rejects and categorically denies” allegations that Iranian armed forces were involved in the incident. The vessel reportedly suffered damage after a blast while transiting the strategic waterway on Monday.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a major global shipping route through which a significant share of the world’s oil and gas supplies passes. Any disruption in the area has immediate implications for global energy markets and international trade.
Meanwhile, the U.S. military announced new action against Iran’s maritime operations. According to U.S. Central Command, American forces fired on an Iranian oil tanker Wednesday in the Gulf of Oman after the vessel allegedly attempted to breach an American blockade targeting Iranian ports.
CENTCOM said a U.S. fighter jet disabled the tanker by targeting its rudder, preventing it from continuing its movement. No immediate reports of casualties were released.
The developments come amid escalating regional tensions and growing fears of broader military confrontation between Washington and Tehran. President Trump has repeatedly demanded that Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz and agree to conditions aimed at ending the conflict.
Iranian officials have not publicly disclosed details of the latest American proposal but confirmed it is under review. Analysts say any negotiations are likely to face major obstacles given the deep mistrust between both sides and the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the Gulf.
International observers are closely monitoring the situation, warning that continued attacks on shipping vessels or energy infrastructure could trigger wider disruptions across global oil markets and further destabilize the Middle East.