Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper criticized the latest Iranian demands for fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz as "ridiculous" and said they will prevent negotiations from progressing. Speaking on ABC News' "This Week" on Sunday, August 9th, 2026, Esper, who served during President Donald Trump's first term, said Iran's conditions include the withdrawal of all U.S. forces from the region, reimbursement for war costs, ending the blockade, and lifting sanctions.

Esper stated these demands should be rejected "out of hand," highlighting that the Iranian leadership feels confident and believes it holds the upper hand by controlling the strategic waterway. He described the situation as serious, tracing its roots back to decisions made at the end of the Cold War and exacerbated by subsequent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Esper also noted the issue intensified during the Biden administration amid U.S. munitions support to Ukraine.

Despite ongoing efforts by the current administration, Esper pointed out that some strategic defense measures, such as building Patriot missiles, take years and won't provide short-term relief but are necessary for long-term strategy.

Esper's comments underscore the complex geopolitical tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and the challenges in negotiating its reopening under Iran's conditions.

Sources