The United States has proposed a comprehensive 15-point plan to Iran aimed at achieving a ceasefire in ongoing conflicts. This plan includes the reopening of the strategically significant strait and a request for Iran to scale back its nuclear ambitions. However, Iran maintains that its nuclear programme is strictly for peaceful purposes. An unnamed Iranian official cited by state television highlighted Tehran’s own conditions for halting hostilities, notably the demand for sovereignty over the strait.
In an interview with Al Jazeera, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that he has received direct communications from US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. Despite this, he firmly stated that there are no ongoing negotiations and expressed a profound lack of trust towards the US, describing the current level of confidence in potential talks as “zero”. He also issued a warning against any US intentions to initiate ground military operations, asserting that Iran is prepared for such scenarios.
To support diplomatic efforts, US officials have reportedly offered assurances that Araghchi and the Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, will not be targeted in any military actions. This information was relayed by three anonymous officials who are not permitted to disclose details publicly. Such measures appear to be designed to create a conducive environment for potential dialogue, although skepticism persists on the Iranian side regarding the efficacy of these diplomatic overtures.