Negotiators face huge task to close gaps in rival Iran peace proposals
Negotiators face huge task to close gaps in rival Iran peace proposals
As the clock ticked down toward a self-imposed deadline, and with an unprecedented threat to annihilate Iran’s “civilisation” looming, US President Donald Trump declared a two-week ceasefire to halt the conflict. The discussions, led by Pakistan, are set to bring together American and Iranian representatives in Islamabad, potentially beginning as early as Friday. Despite the agreement, significant disputes remain, with the very foundation of the talks yet to be clearly defined.
On Truth Social, Trump shared that Iran had submitted a 10-point proposal, which he labeled “a workable basis on which to negotiate.” Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi highlighted the US’s 15-point plan as a potential resolution. Neither proposal has been officially disclosed, though leaked versions have circulated, revealing stark contrasts in expectations between the two nations. The White House has also disputed the media’s portrayal of the Iranian plan, insisting it is not the “working framework” shared with US officials.
“A lot of details are not very clear,” remarked Anwar Gargash, a senior diplomatic adviser to the UAE president. “There are different statements coming out of Iran, from Washington and from the Pakistani mediator,” he added. “So, we need to reconcile the details of these statements and understand exactly what the way forward is.”
The Core of the Dispute
Washington’s main rationale for the conflict has consistently centered on Iran’s alleged pursuit of a nuclear weapon. While Tehran has long denied these claims, the current situation sees American officials asserting that enough damage has been done to ensure a prolonged recovery period for any nuclear threat. However, uncertainty persists regarding the 440kg (970lbs) of highly enriched uranium still in Iran’s control. This material, referred to by Trump as “dust,” is believed to be entombed beneath the ruins of the Nuclear Technology/Research Centre in Isfahan following last year’s crippling strikes.
“Their dust is deeply buried and watched 24/7,” said US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth during a press briefing. “There will be no Iranian nuclear weapons. Period. Full stop.”
Iran insists any resolution must acknowledge its right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes, in line with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Before the war began, Oman had acted as a mediator, suggesting a viable deal was in the works. Yet, the US’s 15-point plan reportedly demands Iran dismantle all major nuclear facilities, cease uranium enrichment within its borders, and surrender stockpiles to international oversight. When pressed about these terms, Hegseth offered a slightly more measured response, emphasizing Iran’s inability to develop nuclear weapons rather than specifying complete enrichment bans.
Economic Impact and Strategic Shifts
Iran’s ability to control shipping through a vital global waterway has been a major accomplishment, beyond its continued existence as an Islamic Republic. The regime’s recent willingness to reopen the Strait indicates a possible relaxation of economic pressures that have mounted over the past month. Yet, this development also raises questions about the future of Iran’s missile programs. The Pentagon claims 80% of its missile facilities, along with 80% of air defence systems and 90% of weapons factories, have been rendered inoperable. This destruction has undermined Iran’s earlier argument that its missile programme protected its nuclear ambitions.
Iran has historically resisted imposing limits on its ballistic missile capabilities. Now, with its infrastructure compromised, the country’s readiness to accept restrictions on missile and drone programs remains uncertain. The negotiations, therefore, hinge on whether Tehran is willing to trade its strategic leverage for a long-term peace agreement with the US.
