IRIA News

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Pakistan has proposed a two-stage plan to end the ongoing war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, while also reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The proposal is currently being reviewed by all sides, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that diplomatic efforts are underway, acknowledging Pakistan’s role in presenting a framework to both Tehran and Washington.

Baghaei said Iran remains focused on its security as attacks continue. On Monday, strikes targeted a major university in Tehran and the South Pars Petrochemical Plant in Asaluyeh, killing at least 34 people, according to Iranian authorities.

The proposal comes amid growing international concern over the conflict’s escalation and its impact on global energy supplies.

Details of “Islamabad Accord”

The plan, informally referred to as the “Islamabad Accord,” outlines a two-phase approach. It calls for an immediate ceasefire followed by negotiations toward a broader and potentially permanent settlement.

Under the proposal, the ceasefire would take effect immediately and include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. A period of 15 to 20 days would then be allocated to finalize a comprehensive agreement.

Sources said the initial understanding would be structured as a memorandum of understanding, finalized electronically through Pakistan, which is currently acting as the primary communication channel between the parties.

Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir has reportedly been in continuous contact with key figures, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

“All elements need to be agreed today,” a source said, highlighting the urgency of the negotiations.

The final agreement is expected to include Iranian commitments not to pursue nuclear weapons in exchange for sanctions relief and the release of frozen assets.

Iran Signals Reservations

Despite ongoing discussions, Iran has expressed clear reservations about key elements of the proposal. A senior Iranian official stated that Tehran would not reopen the Strait of Hormuz as part of a temporary ceasefire. The official also rejected the idea of negotiating under deadlines or external pressure.

Baghaei reiterated this position, criticizing previous proposals from Washington. “A few days ago, they put forward proposals through intermediaries, and the 15-point US plan was reflected through Pakistan and some other friendly countries,” he said. “Such proposals are both extremely ambitious, unusual, and illogical.”

He added that Iran has developed its own set of demands based on national interests. “Based on our own interests, based on our own considerations, we codified the set of demands that we had and have,” Baghaei said.

The Iranian official also rejected the notion that engaging in mediation efforts signals weakness, emphasizing that Iran would not compromise under pressure.

Strait of Hormuz Remains Central to Negotiations

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical issue in the negotiations. The waterway handles more than 20 percent of global oil and gas flows, making it one of the most important energy transit routes in the world.

Since the war began on February 28, Iran has imposed a de facto blockade, allowing only limited traffic. This has disrupted global energy markets and increased volatility.

Iranian officials have indicated that even if the strait is eventually reopened, it may not return to its previous operational status.

The situation has heightened concerns among regional and global stakeholders, many of whom depend on uninterrupted access through the strait.

The United States has not formally responded to Pakistan’s proposal. However, a White House official described it as “one of many ideas,” adding that it has not yet been approved.

U.S. President Donald Trump has continued to push for a rapid resolution. In recent statements, he warned of severe consequences if Iran does not agree to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a set timeframe.

His remarks have added pressure to ongoing negotiations, while also raising concerns about further escalation.

Challenges of Trust

Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts have been described as intensive and complex. Officials involved in the process highlighted the deep mistrust between the parties as a major obstacle.

According to reporting from the region, Pakistan is engaging with multiple layers of Iran’s leadership, including clergy, diplomats, and military officials.

One official described the situation as managing “egos” and navigating a “sea of distrust.” Concerns remain within Iran about the reliability of any agreement, particularly regarding guarantees against future attacks.

The conflict has already resulted in significant casualties and displacement. Iranian authorities report that more than 2,000 people have been killed since the war began.

In Lebanon, Israeli operations have resulted in 1,461 deaths, including at least 124 children, and displaced more than 1.2 million people, according to local authorities.

The broader international community has called for de-escalation. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister emphasized the need for urgent action to reduce tensions and achieve lasting peace.

European officials have also stressed that negotiations, rather than escalation, remain the only viable path to a ceasefire.

As discussions continue, the outcome of Pakistan’s proposal could play a key role in determining whether the conflict moves toward de-escalation or further intensifies.