IRIA News

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Iran has rejected a reported U.S. proposal aimed at ending the ongoing war in the Middle East, calling it “excessive” and laying out its own conditions for a ceasefire, according to statements carried by state media.

The U.S. proposal, described as a 15-point plan, was reportedly delivered to Tehran through Pakistan, which has emerged as a key intermediary in the diplomatic process.

While the full details of the proposal have not been made public, officials familiar with the discussions say it includes provisions related to Iran’s nuclear program, missile capabilities, sanctions relief, and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian officials, however, have pushed back strongly against the framework. An official quoted by state media said Tehran would only agree to end the war on its own terms, emphasizing that “Iran will end the war when it decides to do so and when its own conditions are met.”

Iran’s Conditions for Ending the War

According to reports, Iran has outlined five key conditions for a ceasefire. These include a complete end to hostilities across all fronts, guarantees that no further military action will be taken against the country, and the payment of reparations for damages caused during the conflict.

Another major demand involves the recognition of Iran’s “natural” sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes. Control over the strait has long been a central element of Iran’s strategic leverage in the region.

Iran has also insisted on the protection of its leadership and officials, following a series of targeted strikes that have killed senior figures, including the country’s top leadership. These demands are widely seen as difficult, if not impossible, for Washington to accept.

Several of these conditions, particularly reparations and control over the Strait of Hormuz, are already being viewed by U.S. officials as non-starters. The gap between the two sides highlights the significant obstacles facing any diplomatic resolution.

Details of the US Proposal

The American plan is believed to include a rollback or dismantling of Iran’s nuclear facilities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. It also reportedly addresses limitations on Iran’s ballistic missile program and seeks to ensure the free flow of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Additional provisions may include restrictions on Iran’s support for regional armed groups, an issue that has long been a sticking point in negotiations. Iranian officials have repeatedly stated that their missile program and regional alliances are essential to national security and are not open for negotiation.

Despite these challenges, U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about the prospects for a deal. He recently announced a temporary five-day pause on strikes targeting Iranian energy infrastructure, describing recent talks as “very good and productive.”

However, Iran has denied engaging in direct negotiations with Washington, stating instead that messages have been conveyed through “friendly countries.” This indirect communication further complicates efforts to reach a breakthrough.

Escalation Continues

Even as diplomatic efforts continue, the conflict shows no signs of slowing. The United States and Israel have been conducting airstrikes on Iran since late February, with the campaign targeting military, nuclear, and energy infrastructure.

According to available figures, more than 1,340 people have been killed in Iran since the start of the strikes. In response, Iran has launched drone and missile attacks against Israel, as well as targets in Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting U.S. military assets.

These retaliatory strikes have caused casualties and damage to infrastructure, while also disrupting global markets and aviation. Energy facilities have been particularly affected, contributing to a surge in oil prices and increasing pressure on global supply chains.

One recent attack reportedly triggered a massive fire at Kuwait International Airport, highlighting the widening geographic scope of the conflict and the risks of further escalation.

Amid the ongoing fighting, the United States has begun deploying additional troops to the Middle East. Officials say at least 1,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division are being sent to the region, along with approximately 5,000 Marines and thousands of naval personnel.

These forces are trained for rapid deployment in hostile environments, including securing key infrastructure such as airfields and strategic positions. The Pentagon has confirmed the troop movements but has not disclosed specific locations or operational details.

The buildup suggests that Washington is preparing for a range of scenarios, including the possibility of a prolonged conflict or further escalation. It also raises questions about how these forces might be used if diplomatic efforts fail.

Diplomatic Efforts Face Major Challenges

Efforts to bring the two sides to the negotiating table are ongoing, with mediators exploring the possibility of in-person talks. Pakistan has signaled its willingness to host such discussions, potentially as soon as the coming days.

Officials involved in the mediation say the challenges are significant. It remains unclear who within Iran’s political system has the authority to negotiate or whether any faction would be willing to engage while the conflict continues.

Iran’s leadership remains deeply suspicious of the United States, particularly following past incidents in which military action coincided with diplomatic engagement. The strikes that began the current war have further eroded trust.

On the U.S. side, there are also internal questions about how far Washington is willing to compromise. Some of Iran’s demands, especially those related to sovereignty and reparations, are likely to face strong opposition.

Regional and Global Implications

The conflict is increasingly being viewed as a major threat to regional and global stability. The United Nations has warned that the situation risks spiraling out of control, with the potential for a broader war involving multiple countries.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point of concern. Any prolonged disruption to shipping through the waterway could have severe consequences for global energy markets, driving up prices and affecting economies worldwide.

At the same time, the involvement of multiple actors, including Israel, Gulf states, and international powers, adds layers of complexity to an already volatile situation.

Israeli officials have expressed skepticism about the U.S. proposal, with one minister describing it as “beautiful on paper” but suggesting that Iran is unlikely to accept it. This reflects broader doubts about whether diplomacy can succeed under current conditions.

As the war enters its fourth week, the prospects for a negotiated settlement remain uncertain. Both sides appear entrenched in their positions, with significant gaps between their respective demands and expectations.

While backchannel diplomacy continues, the ongoing military escalation risks undermining any progress made at the negotiating table. Each new strike and counterstrike further complicates efforts to build trust and find common ground.

For now, the situation remains fluid, with developments unfolding rapidly on both the diplomatic and military fronts. Whether the current efforts will lead to meaningful negotiations or a deeper and more prolonged conflict remains to be seen.