Iran offered a seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but the price was steep: sanctions relief, unfrozen assets, and an end to economic pressure before any lasting agreement. Steve Yates explains why President Trump rejected the proposal, how leverage shapes nation-state negotiations, and what the decision could mean for energy markets, China, the Revolutionary Guard, and American consumers facing higher fuel costs.

Listen for a clear breakdown of the bargaining strategy behind the headlines and the real-world impact on Main Street.

Follow Nation States with Yates for clear, common-sense insights where Steve Yates serves as your personal national security advisor, breaking down world events in ways that matter to Main Street, not just Washington. Connect with the show at Feedback@NationStatesYates.com and follow on X @NSWithYates.