Ceasefire Proposal in the Strait of Hormuz
A new plan aimed at halting hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz could be in place by Monday, according to a source familiar with the discussions.
This framework, developed by Pakistan, was shared with both Iran and the U.S. overnight. It outlines a two-step strategy involving an immediate ceasefire followed by a more comprehensive agreement.
“All elements need to be agreed today,” the source noted. The initial deal is expected to take the form of a memorandum of understanding, which will be finalized electronically via Pakistan, the central communication channel for these negotiations.
Axios reported that the U.S., Iran, and regional mediators are in talks about a possible 45-day ceasefire, which could pave the way for a permanent resolution to the conflict.
The Pakistani military chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, was reportedly in close contact overnight with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Arakchi.
Per the proposed plan, an immediate ceasefire would commence, the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened, and more extensive reconciliation efforts would take approximately 15 to 20 days. The deal, potentially named the “Islamabad Accord,” would also include a regional framework governing the straits, with final discussions held in Islamabad.
U.S. and Iranian officials have not yet responded to this development. A spokesperson from the Pakistan Foreign Ministry declined to comment.
Previously, Iranian officials indicated they were seeking a permanent ceasefire to ensure they wouldn’t face future attacks from the U.S. and Israel.
Iran has been receiving messages from various intermediaries, including Pakistan, Türkiye, and Egypt.
The eventual agreement is expected to involve Iran agreeing not to pursue nuclear weapons in return for relief from sanctions and the unfreezing of assets.
Some Pakistani sources mentioned that Iran is not yet fully engaged, despite increased support from civilian and military fronts.
Currently, there’s been no response from Iran regarding the ceasefire proposal, which has been backed by Pakistan, China, and the U.S., and has yet to gain any firm commitments.
Chinese authorities have not responded to requests for comments on the matter.
This push for diplomacy comes at a time of escalating tensions that are raising worries about potential impacts on shipping through the critically important Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil supply.
U.S. President Donald Trump has recently called for a swift end to the conflict, warning of serious repercussions if a ceasefire is not reached soon.
The ongoing dispute has led to increased volatility in energy markets, with traders closely watching developments that might influence the flow of oil through the strait.
