US rejects Iranian proposal to reopen Strait of Hormuz as military tension rises

US President Donald Trump has rejected a seven-day ceasefire proposal from Tehran that aimed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials had offered to unblock the strategic shipping channel in exchange for Washington lifting its naval blockade on Iranian ports, suspending petroleum sanctions, releasing frozen assets, and halting military operations. Tehran affirmed that the passage will remain closed until all demands are met.

The diplomatic deadlock coincides with escalating military confrontations in the area. Following a US attack on Iran's Larak Island, American forces started escorting commercial oil tankers through the strait at night. In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched sea mines into the corridor, heightening fears of a wider escalation.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, Jornal Económico, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal)