'Lift blockade and Hormuz will open'; Russian support and Iran's tough stance

TEHRAN: Iran announced that it will fully open the Strait of Hormuz if the US lifts the blockade on Iran’s ports and ships. The proposal is part of a three-phase peace plan Iran has put forward to end the war with the US. The proposals were submitted to the US through Pakistan, which is mediating the talks.

Iran's proposals focus on easing maritime and military tensions.

The effort is to delay the US demand that Iran immediately transfer its enriched uranium to another country.

Iran's position is that the nuclear program and uranium can be discussed in the final stage.

US President Donald Trump will discuss Iran's conditions with his security advisers. Trump reiterated that he would send representatives to Pakistan for direct talks if Iran requests.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Russia yesterday and handed over the peace plan to President Vladimir Putin. He sought Russian support for its implementation.

Iran’s proposal:

1. The war must end. It must be guaranteed that the US will not resume attacks on Iran or Lebanon

2. The naval blockade against Iran must be lifted. Hormuz will be opened. A new maritime law framework will be prepared in Hormuz with the coordination of Oman

3. Nuclear talks can begin if both stages are completed