Iran Offers Fresh Proposal via Pakistan to End War, Reopen Hormuz: Report

TEHRAN/WASHINGTON, Apr 27: Iran has reportedly submitted a new proposal to the United States through Pakistani intermediaries, offering a framework to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and end the ongoing conflict, according to a report by Axios.

The proposal, described as a potential breakthrough, comes amid stalled peace efforts and continued tensions in West Asia. The White House has acknowledged receiving the proposal, though it remains unclear whether Washington is willing to engage with it.

US President Donald Trump recently reiterated that Iran could initiate talks but maintained that Tehran must not acquire nuclear weapons. However, diplomatic momentum appeared to slow after the US cancelled a planned Islamabad visit by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, reportedly signalling dissatisfaction with earlier Iranian offers.

At the core of the standoff is the US demand that Iran halt uranium enrichment for at least a decade and move its nuclear stockpile abroad. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has indicated there is no internal consensus within Iran’s leadership on these conditions.

The new plan reportedly outlines a two-stage approach, prioritising reopening maritime routes and lifting the US naval blockade. It proposes either an extended ceasefire or a permanent end to hostilities, with nuclear negotiations deferred until later stages.

Araghchi has been conducting regional diplomacy, including engagements in Pakistan and Oman, and is expected to hold talks with Vladimir Putin in Russia.

Despite a halt in large-scale fighting following US-Israeli strikes on February 28, no formal peace agreement has been reached. The conflict has led to significant casualties and economic disruptions globally.

Iran continues to leverage its control over the Strait of Hormuz—through which nearly 20 per cent of global oil supply passes—while the US naval blockade has contributed to price volatility in global markets.

Tehran has insisted that the US must remove key obstacles, particularly the blockade, before substantive negotiations can proceed, along with demands for compensation and assurances against future military action. Meanwhile, Washington remains focused on curbing Iran’s nuclear and missile programmes, underscoring the deep divisions that persist despite renewed diplomatic efforts. (Agencies)