US and Iran close to temporary truce, Pakistani officials claim

Pakistani officials claim the US and Iran are nearing a temporary truce in the Middle East, with a basic interim deal potentially reached this weekend. Tehran is reportedly reviewing a US proposal, though past negotiations for a permanent end to hostilities have stalled. This potential agreement, which could lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, has boosted global stocks and lowered oil prices. Pakistan has been a key mediator in indirect talks between Washington and Tehran. Recent escalations, including Iranian missile launches and US military actions against an oil tanker, have occurred amidst these diplomatic efforts. President Trump has expressed optimism about reaching an agreement.

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 has submitted a new 14-point proposal to the United States via Pakistan, aiming for a permanent end to the ongoing war. This plan is reportedly a response to a prior nine-point US proposal that focused on a two-month ceasefire. Iran's latest offer emphasizes resolving all issues within 30 days, seeking guarantees for a lasting peace. President Trump is currently reviewing the proposal but has expressed uncertainty about reaching a deal, citing mistrust between the two nations. The conflict, which began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran in February, has involved a naval war in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran imposing a de facto blockade and the US maintaining a naval blockade of Iranian ports, despite a ceasefire initiated on April 8. Key US demands include Iran ending its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and addressing its nuclear capabilities.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is conducting a diplomatic tour of Pakistan, Russia, and Oman to garner support for a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative defers discussions on Iran's nuclear program with the United States to a later stage. Araghchi met with Pakistani officials, including the Army Chief, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with senior intelligence officials from several countries reportedly attending talks in Muscat. Iran has submitted its proposal to Pakistan, which is acting as an intermediary with the US following failed direct talks. While the White House has not confirmed the proposal's details, a spokesperson stated the US will prioritize American interests and prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. US President Trump has indicated Iran knows what is required to avoid nuclear proliferation.