Iran has put forward a revised proposal aimed at easing tensions with the United States and Israel, suggesting a phased approach that prioritizes de-escalation before addressing more complex nuclear issues. Under this framework, Tehran has offered to reopen maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and accept the lifting of the US naval blockade, while postponing detailed negotiations over its nuclear programme to a later stage in the process.
The proposal reflects an attempt by Iran to separate immediate economic and security concerns from longer-term strategic disagreements. Iranian officials argue that delaying nuclear discussions would create a more stable environment for diplomacy, allowing both sides to first secure commitments to end hostilities and prevent further military strikes. As part of the plan, Tehran is also seeking assurances that no future attacks will be carried out, along with recognition of its right to pursue nuclear activities for peaceful purposes, even if temporary restrictions are agreed upon.
However, Donald Trump has rejected the proposal, stating that it fails to meet Washington’s core requirement of ensuring that Iran cannot develop nuclear weapons. He has maintained a firm position that nuclear concessions must come at the beginning of any agreement rather than being deferred. At the same time, Trump has expressed mixed signals, indicating a preference for avoiding full-scale military escalation while continuing to frame the conflict as necessary to eliminate nuclear risk.
Iran’s foreign minister has responded by keeping the door open for continued diplomacy, signalling that negotiations remain possible if the United States adjusts its approach and reduces what Tehran describes as confrontational tactics. This reflects a broader pattern in the ongoing standoff, where both sides continue indirect engagement despite publicly rejecting each other’s key proposals.
The disagreement unfolds against the backdrop of sustained economic and geopolitical pressure. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which handles a significant share of global energy shipments, have driven up fuel prices and increased concerns about wider economic instability. Iran’s restrictions on shipping and the US blockade of Iranian exports have effectively created a dual choke point, amplifying global market volatility.
Although active large-scale military operations have paused under a ceasefire, the absence of a concrete agreement has left the situation unresolved. The core divide remains unchanged: Washington insists on upfront guarantees regarding Iran’s nuclear programme, while Tehran seeks phased negotiations that first address sanctions, trade and security concerns before moving to more sensitive issues.
