Former Secretary of Defense Mark Esper criticized Iran's latest demands for reopening the Strait of Hormuz as a "ridiculous" set of conditions that will stall negotiations. Speaking on ABC News' "This Week" on Sunday, August 9th, 2026, Esper said the U.S. should 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 "beyond the pale."

Esper noted that the Iranian leadership’s confidence in their negotiating position and control over the strait reflects their belief that they have the upper hand. He said, "They believe they are winning, and they are already. So that's what we're up against right now."

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."

Esper acknowledged that the current administration is "trying hard in multiple ways," but cautioned that strategic defense measures, such as building Patriot missiles, take years to materialize and won't provide short-term relief.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global shipping, and Iran’s control over it gives them significant leverage in regional negotiations.

Sources