Iran has presented a new proposal to regional intermediaries aiming to ease tensions in the Middle East by ceasing military operations in the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative, reported by The Wall Street Journal, is conditional on an end to US hostilities and the removal of the US blockade affecting Iranian maritime activities. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is at the forefront of this diplomatic effort, which seeks to break the current deadlock in geopolitical relations.

According to sources familiar with the discussions, the framework suggested by Iran includes putting negotiations about its nuclear programme on hold. While the proposal has started to gain attention, the Iranian mission to the United Nations has not yet issued an official statement regarding this matter.

Engagement with Russia and US Response

On April 29, Araghchi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to further discuss this diplomatic push. Putin commended Iran for its resilience against military actions from the US and Israel, pledging Moscow’s support for diplomatic solutions. During the same period, reports indicate that the US administration is considering the proposal seriously, with White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that President Trump has reviewed the Iranian framework along with his national security advisers.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged Tehran’s seriousness in pursuing a deal but emphasised that the US would not allow Iran to dominate the critical shipping route. The friction between the two nations has intensified recently, especially following the US’s decision to enact a naval blockade on Iranian ports in response to Tehran’s actions in the strait.

The ongoing situation escalated this month as tensions boiled over, leading to a stand-off that has put international shipping at risk. As negotiations broke down in the past, The Wall Street Journal highlighted that Iran’s latest proposal includes a three-step de-escalation plan.

Details of the Three-Stage Plan

The first phase of the proposed roadmap requires the US and Israel to halt military activities and provide formal assurances that these actions would not resume. This initial step aims to create a stable foundation for further negotiations. Following this, neutral mediators would be introduced to oversee the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, alongside the establishment of a long-term management agreement for the strategic waterway.

However, Iranian officials have reportedly indicated to mediators that Tehran intends to retain its sovereignty over the strait. Before any discussions regarding its nuclear programme or financial support to regional proxies can commence, Iran wishes to assert its control over the waterway.

While the proposal may appear to offer a pathway to resolution, many analysts express doubts regarding its feasibility. Raz Zimmt from Israel’s Institute for National Security Studies remarked on the complexity of the timeline, suggesting that unresolved issues from the conflict are unlikely to find resolution later down the line. In light of the evolving situation, mediators around the world are urging both Tehran and Washington to maintain open lines of communication in hopes of reaching a mutual agreement.

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