Former U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper criticized Iran's recent demands for fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz as "ridiculous" and said they will hinder any progress in negotiations. Speaking on ABC News' "This Week" on Sunday, August 9th, 2026, Esper called for the United States to reject Iran's terms "out of hand."

Iran's demands include the withdrawal of all U.S. forces from the region, reimbursement for war costs, ending the blockade, and lifting sanctions. Esper described these as "gone beyond the pale."

Esper noted that the new Iranian conditions demonstrate the country's confidence in its negotiating position and leverage through control of the strait. "It shows that they believe that they have the upper hand, they believe they are winning, and they are already," he said.

He traced the problem back decades, stating, "It is a serious situation that goes back to the end of the Cold War and the decisions we made between then, and then with the onset of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars," adding that the situation "accelerated during the Biden administration when we were expending munitions or giving munitions to Ukraine."

While acknowledging that the current administration is "trying hard in multiple ways," Esper cautioned that some strategic measures, like building Patriot missiles, take years and will not provide short-term relief.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical waterway for global shipping, and Iran's demands have raised concerns about the stability of the region and ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Sources