Washington, DC [US], April 27 (HBTV): In a significant diplomatic manoeuvre aimed at de-escalating regional tensions, Tehran has reportedly submitted a 'new proposal' to Washington through Pakistan intermediaries. According to a report by Axios, the offer outlines a framework to 'reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the war,' signalling a potential breakthrough in the prolonged conflict.
The diplomatic initiative comes at a time when peace efforts have largely stalled. US President Donald Trump recently remarked that Tehran could 'call' Washington if it wished to negotiate, while maintaining that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons.
Momentum for direct talks appeared to weaken after the White House cancelled a scheduled visit to Islamabad by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The move was widely seen as a sign of dissatisfaction with Tehran’s earlier proposal.
At the centre of the impasse is Washington’s demand that Iran halt uranium enrichment for at least ten years and move its nuclear stockpile abroad. However, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reportedly told mediators that there is 'no consensus within the Iranian leadership' on responding to these conditions.
The framework conveyed via Pakistan proposes a 'two-stage plan' focused first on resolving the maritime crisis and lifting the US naval blockade. It suggests either a prolonged ceasefire extension or a permanent end to hostilities.
Under the proposal, nuclear negotiations would begin only at a later stage, after maritime routes are reopened and the blockade is lifted. While Axios reported that the White House has received the proposal, it remains unclear whether the United States will pursue it.
In recent days, Araghchi has engaged in diplomatic outreach between Pakistan and Oman, and is scheduled for talks with Vladimir Putin in Russia.
On Sunday, Trump expressed reluctance to send negotiators, stating that long-distance travel was unnecessary and that discussions could take place remotely.
Despite a halt in full-scale combat following US-Israeli military strikes on February 28, a formal peace agreement has not yet been reached. The conflict has led to significant casualties and global economic disruptions.
Tehran continues to leverage its strategic control over the Strait of Hormuz, a route that carries around 20 per cent of global oil supply, while the US naval blockade of Iranian ports has contributed to price spikes and market volatility.
Iran has maintained that Washington must first remove key obstacles, particularly the blockade, before meaningful negotiations can proceed. Its position also includes demands for compensation, a revised legal framework governing the strait, and assurances against future military action.
Meanwhile, the United States remains focused on curbing Iran’s nuclear programme, missile development, and regional influence. These differences highlight the wide gaps that persist between the two sides as diplomatic efforts continue. (ANI)