The United States and Iran appear to be moving closer to a possible agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict involving the US, Iran, and Israel. However, major disagreements remain over Iran’s nuclear program and control of the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz. Reports suggest that mediators are working on a preliminary framework that could formally end the conflict and open the door to broader negotiations.
What Is the Reported US Proposal?
According to reports, the United States has proposed a 14-point framework that would begin a phased de-escalation process.
The reported proposal includes:
- Iran agreeing not to develop nuclear weapons
- A temporary halt on uranium enrichment for around 12 years
- Reopening shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz
- Gradual lifting of US sanctions on Iran
- Release of billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets
The proposal would reportedly start with a short memorandum or preliminary agreement, followed by more detailed negotiations over the next 30 days. US negotiations are reportedly being led by envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump adviser Jared Kushner.
Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints. Roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies pass through the narrow waterway. The ongoing blockade and military tensions in the region have already contributed to instability in global energy markets and fears of a wider economic slowdown. Iran has insisted on maintaining sovereignty and security control over the strait, while the US and Gulf allies want unrestricted international navigation restored immediately.
What Are the Main Disagreements?
Despite signs of progress, several major issues remain unresolved.
1. Iran’s Nuclear Enrichment Program
The biggest obstacle is Iran’s uranium enrichment activities.
The US reportedly wants Iran to halt enrichment activities entirely or severely restrict them. Iranian officials, however, have repeatedly said that uranium enrichment for civilian purposes is a sovereign right under international treaties. Iran currently possesses significant quantities of uranium enriched to levels far above those allowed under the 2015 nuclear deal. Tehran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful and intended for civilian energy purposes.
2. Existing Uranium Stockpile
Another major dispute involves Iran’s existing stockpile of enriched uranium. Reports indicate that the US and Benjamin Netanyahu want the material removed from Iran entirely. Iran has strongly resisted surrendering or transferring its enriched uranium stockpile abroad.
3. Sanctions Relief
Iran is demanding meaningful sanctions relief before making broader concessions. Tehran also reportedly wants guarantees from the United Nations Security Council to ensure future agreements cannot easily be reversed. This concern stems partly from President Donald Trump withdrawing the US from the 2015 nuclear agreement during his first term.
How Has Iran Responded?
Iran has not formally accepted the proposal. Iranian officials have publicly downplayed reports suggesting that a breakthrough is imminent. Some lawmakers described the proposal as an “American wish-list,” while other senior officials stressed that Iran’s nuclear enrichment program remains a “red line.” Officials in Tehran have indicated that they are currently focused on ending military escalation first before discussing broader nuclear restrictions.
What Role Is Pakistan Playing?
Reports indicate that Pakistan is serving as a mediator between Washington and Tehran. Pakistani officials confirmed that diplomatic efforts are ongoing but declined to release details publicly, saying confidentiality is necessary to preserve trust between both sides.
Could a Deal Actually Happen?
Analysts say a limited agreement is possible if both sides prioritize ending the conflict and stabilizing energy markets. However, a comprehensive deal remains difficult because the core disputes — especially over uranium enrichment and regional influence — remain unresolved. Even if a preliminary agreement is signed, negotiations over the final terms could take weeks or months. For now, both Washington and Tehran appear to be balancing diplomacy with pressure, while trying to avoid a wider regional escalation that could further disrupt global oil supplies and international markets.