Will the US Accept Iran's Proposal to End Conflict and Reopen the Strait of Hormuz?

Iran has proposed to cease hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz if the US lifts its blockade, but the Trump administration remains skeptical. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasizes the need to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. With significant casualties reported in the ongoing conflict, the situation remains tense. Will the US accept Iran's offer, or will negotiations stall? Read on for a detailed analysis of the current geopolitical landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 28, 2026, 13:22 IST

Tehran's Proposal and US Response

On Tuesday, the Trump administration appeared hesitant to accept Iran's recent offer to cease hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, contingent on the US lifting its blockade against the nation.

This proposal suggests delaying talks regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions, a point that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio dismissed during a Fox News interview on Monday.

"We must ensure that any agreement reached effectively prevents them from advancing towards nuclear weapon capabilities at any time," Rubio stated, referring to the proposal relayed to the US by Pakistan.

The White House confirmed that President Trump’s national security team reviewed the offer, with Trump expected to comment on it later.

The offer surfaced as Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was in Russia, a long-time ally of Tehran, although it remains uncertain what support Moscow might provide at this juncture.

Casualties and Ongoing Conflict

Since the onset of the conflict, over 3,375 individuals have lost their lives in Iran, while Lebanon has seen at least 2,521 fatalities due to renewed clashes between Israel and the Iran-supported Hezbollah group, which reignited just two days after the war began. Additionally, 23 people have died in Israel, with more casualties reported in Gulf Arab nations. The toll includes 16 Israeli soldiers in Lebanon, 13 US service members in the area, and six UN peacekeepers stationed in southern Lebanon.

Rubio Emphasizes Nuclear Concerns

In a Fox News interview, Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed Iran's latest proposal, which would halt discussions on its nuclear program while alleviating the blockade and ending the conflict.

"I firmly believe that if this radical clerical regime continues to govern Iran, they will eventually pursue a nuclear weapon," Rubio asserted.

He emphasized that this fundamental issue must be addressed, stating, "It remains the core issue here."

When asked about the seriousness of Iran's intentions regarding a deal, Rubio expressed skepticism, suggesting that they are adept negotiators seeking to gain time.

"We cannot allow them to manipulate the situation," he warned. "Any agreement must ensure they cannot rapidly advance towards developing a nuclear weapon."