Iran offers new deal to US to end war, reopen strait of Hormuz; nuclear talks put on hold
PTC Web Desk: Iran has reportedly put forward a fresh proposal to the United States aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, while deferring discussions on its nuclear programme to a later stage.
According to an Axios report, the proposal was conveyed to Washington through Pakistan, which is acting as a mediator. The plan primarily focuses on easing tensions in the Gulf by restoring access to the Strait of Hormuz and bringing hostilities to a halt, particularly in light of the growing global energy concerns triggered by the disruption.
Sources cited in the report said the proposal includes either extending the current ceasefire for a longer duration or reaching a permanent agreement to stop military actions between the two sides. However, negotiations related to Iran’s nuclear ambitions would only begin once the Strait is reopened and the US lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports.
While the White House has received the proposal, there is no clarity yet on whether the US administration under Donald Trump is willing to consider the terms. Responding to media queries, White House spokesperson Olivia Wales said such sensitive diplomatic matters would not be addressed publicly. She reiterated that the United States would only agree to a deal that prioritises its national interests and prevents Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
The latest development comes at a time when talks between the two countries have stalled. Recently, Trump cancelled a planned visit by his envoys, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, to Islamabad for another round of discussions. The decision came shortly after Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi left Pakistan following earlier consultations.
Trump had downplayed the need for further travel, saying there was little value in long-distance visits under the current circumstances. He also indicated that the door for dialogue remains open, stating that Iran could initiate talks if it wished.
Amid the diplomatic deadlock, Araghchi has once again visited Islamabad for fresh consultations with Pakistani officials. During his earlier trip, he had met Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
Following his Pakistan visit, the Iranian foreign minister has now travelled to Russia, where he is expected to hold discussions with President Vladimir Putin as efforts continue to find a way out of the ongoing crisis.
- With inputs from agencies
