Why is Iran taking time to respond to the US proposal to end the war?

Iran is reportedly considering a US proposal aimed at ending the current conflict, according to an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson. While Iran reviews the proposal, a parliamentary official warned of a "harsh and regret-inducing response" if the US does not concede. Former President Trump also threatened intensified bombing if a deal isn't reached, while claiming Iran has agreed to forgo nuclear weapons. The US previously stated its offensive operation had concluded after achieving objectives. The conflict has significantly impacted the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, with a ceasefire in place since early April, though maritime traffic remains limited.

The US is awaiting Iran's response to proposals for an interim ceasefire deal, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This comes amid heightened tensions and clashes in the Strait of Hormuz, with the US military reporting firing on two Iranian-flagged tankers attempting to violate an American blockade. Iran, meanwhile, accuses the US of breaching the fragile ceasefire. Diplomatic efforts continue, with Pakistan relaying a US memorandum to Iran as a potential basis for a more solid agreement. Both nations are testing each other's resolve, with Iran highlighting its missile capabilities as a negotiation tactic while the US aims to restrict them.

US President Donald Trump announced "very good talks" with Iran, suggesting a deal to end the ongoing war is possible. Trump stated that Iran must suspend its nuclear program and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of renewed bombing if negotiations fail. While Trump expressed optimism about reaching an agreement before his trip to China, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman downplayed reports of an imminent deal, stating Tehran has not formally responded to the latest US proposal. Diplomatic exchanges are continuing via Pakistan, with sources indicating a memorandum to formally end the conflict is close to agreement. The war, which began on February 28, involves ongoing disputes over Iran's nuclear ambitions and control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran is reviewing a US ceasefire proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, though officials indicate a significant gap remains between the two nations. The US proposal, reportedly a 14-point document, requires Iran to halt nuclear weapon development and uranium enrichment for 12 years, and surrender enriched uranium. In return, the US would gradually lift sanctions, release frozen assets, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This exchange occurs amidst ongoing military actions in the Strait of Hormuz, with US President Trump issuing a stern warning to Iran. Iran has not yet formally responded to the US plan, which follows a proposal submitted by Iran via Pakistan.

President Trump expressed optimism about a potential peace deal with Iran, though he acknowledged past difficulties and indicated it was unlikely US envoys would attend a second round of talks in Islamabad. Reports suggested a preliminary 14-point memorandum was being considered to end hostilities, unblock the Strait of Hormuz, lift sanctions, and curb Iran's nuclear program. However, skepticism exists among some US officials and Iranian parliamentarians, who view the reported points as a US "wish list." Experts caution that even an initial agreement might not resolve complex issues, citing the lengthy negotiations required for previous nuclear deals. Trump has previously claimed Iran agreed to terms, which Tehran denied.

Iran's top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, is visiting China to hold talks with his counterpart, Wang Yi, ahead of a potential visit by Donald Trump. The meeting, announced by the Chinese foreign ministry, comes as Araghchi continues his diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel. China has consistently called for a ceasefire and freedom of navigation, while supporting Iran's sovereignty and security. This trip follows Araghchi's recent visits to Russia, Oman, and Pakistan, all aimed at securing international support. The war has significantly impacted global energy markets, with crude oil prices reaching record highs due to blockades of the Strait of Hormuz, and stalled efforts for Washington and Tehran to resume talks.

President Trump's foreign policy regarding Iran has seen rapid shifts in recent days. Initially, he suggested Iran had not faced sufficient consequences, then proposed "Project Freedom" as a humanitarian effort to ease tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. However, by Wednesday, Trump announced significant progress towards a complete agreement, pausing Project Freedom to allow for negotiations. These policy changes reflect the administration's struggle with Iran's capabilities, including its ability to disrupt shipping and its nuclear program, within a complex geopolitical situation. Reports indicate a potential memorandum of understanding with Pakistan as a mediator, aiming to end blockades and initiate talks on Iran's nuclear program, sanctions, and frozen assets.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy announced that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be ensured following the US pausing its operation to assist stranded ships. The IRGC stated new procedures are in place, though details were not provided. This development comes after US President Donald Trump halted the "Project Freedom" operation, citing progress in talks with Iran and a request from Pakistan, which is mediating. Trump indicated the US naval blockade of Hormuz remains active and warned of intensified military action if Iran does not agree to terms. Iran's Foreign Ministry confirmed it is reviewing a US proposal.

President Donald Trump stated that China has not challenged the US regarding the Iran war, emphasizing his strong relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of their upcoming summit in Beijing on May 14-15. Trump suggested Xi would not challenge him due to their personal rapport. Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route now effectively closed due to the conflict, are expected to be discussed. Trump highlighted China's reliance on oil from the Strait of Hormuz and offered to redirect Chinese oil shipments to US ports like Texas and Louisiana. This meeting was rescheduled from its original March date following US and Israeli attacks on Iran.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a defiant statement asserting Iran's control over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and pledging to protect the nation's nuclear and missile programs. The statement, read on state television, declared a "new chapter" for the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz, claiming Iran would secure the region and eliminate "enemy abuses." Khamenei vowed to guard Iran's technological capacities, including nuclear and missile programs, as national capital. This comes amidst a US counter-blockade of Iranian oil ports and reports of Khamenei's injury following his father's death. The statement suggests Iran's intent to implement a new fee regime in the strait, which is crucial for global oil transit.

On day 60 of the Iran war, diplomacy is gaining momentum as the US reviews an Iranian peace proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This plan coincides with potential delays to nuclear talks. Iran's Foreign Minister met with Russian President Putin, indicating Tehran is considering resuming negotiations amidst ongoing tensions. Dozens of nations have urged the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route. Iran asserts its armed forces would control the Strait under a proposed law and blames the US for stalled talks, condemning the capture of two Iranian-linked oil tankers as "high seas robbery." Critics question the Iran nuclear expertise of Trump's negotiating team, despite their access to the President.