Iran Proposes Deal: Strait of Hormuz First, Nuclear Talks Later
News Desk
Islamabad: Amid a fragile ceasefire and mounting global economic pressure, Iran has floated a new diplomatic framework aimed at easing tensions with the United States by prioritizing maritime access over its contested nuclear programme, according to a report by Axios.
The proposal, conveyed through regional mediators including Pakistan and Oman, seeks the immediate reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of blockades, while deferring contentious nuclear negotiations to a later stage.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reportedly discussed the plan during recent shuttle diplomacy across Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow.
Sources familiar with the talks suggest Tehran is attempting to break the current deadlock by separating urgent economic and security concerns from longer-term disputes over uranium enrichment.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil shipments, has been partially closed by Iran during the conflict, exacerbating inflationary pressures and rattling energy markets worldwide.
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Despite the overture, prospects for immediate progress remain uncertain. US President Donald Trump signaled a hardline stance, reiterating that any agreement must categorically prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
Speaking to Fox News, Trump emphasized that Tehran must initiate direct communication if it seeks a resolution.
Diplomatic momentum also suffered a setback after planned talks in Islamabad were abruptly canceled, with US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner scrapping their visit.
This has raised doubts about Washington’s willingness to engage with the phased approach proposed by Tehran.
According to insiders, Iranian leadership remains divided on how to respond to US demands, particularly regarding uranium enrichment rights, long defended by Tehran as essential for peaceful energy purposes but viewed with suspicion by Western powers.
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The proposal envisions extending the current ceasefire or converting it into a permanent truce once maritime routes are secured. Only then would broader negotiations, including nuclear issues, be revisited.
While the White House has acknowledged receipt of the plan, officials have refrained from commenting on its viability. A spokesperson maintained that the US would not negotiate publicly and would only accept terms aligned with its strategic interests.
Beyond the nuclear file, deep divisions persist. Washington continues to push for limits on Iran’s regional influence and missile capabilities, while Tehran demands sanctions relief and an end to Israeli military actions against its allies.
As diplomatic maneuvering continues, the stakes remain high. Control over the Strait of Hormuz gives Iran significant leverage, as roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through the narrow waterway, making its reopening a critical priority for global markets and a potential entry point for renewed negotiations.
