Negotiators face huge task to close gaps in rival Iran peace proposals
Negotiators face huge task to close gaps in rival Iran peace proposals
As the clock ticks toward a self-imposed deadline, US President Donald Trump declared a two-week ceasefire to pause hostilities. This decision follows a bold warning about Iran’s potential to erase its entire civilization. The upcoming talks, led by Pakistan as a mediator, will bring American and Iranian representatives to Islamabad, possibly beginning on Friday. Despite the agreement, significant disputes linger, with the core of negotiations yet to be clarified.
Trump shared his interpretation of Iran’s 10-point proposal, calling it a “workable foundation for dialogue” on Truth Social. Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi highlighted the US’s 15-point plan, which could bring the conflict to an end. However, both proposals remain unofficial, even as their outlines have been leaked and circulated. The differences between them are stark, creating uncertainty about their mutual goals.
“There are conflicting statements from Iran, Washington, and the Pakistani mediator. We must align these details to determine the path forward,” said Anwar Gargash, UAE president’s senior diplomatic adviser.
The war’s justification centered on Iran’s alleged pursuit of a nuclear weapon, a claim the country has consistently denied. American officials believe sufficient damage has been inflicted since last year’s 12-day conflict and recent US-Israeli strikes, slowing Iran’s ability to rebuild its nuclear capabilities. Yet, the fate of around 440kg of highly enriched uranium, described by Trump as “dust,” remains unresolved. This material, believed to be hidden beneath the ruins of Iran’s Nuclear Technology/Research Centre in Isfahan, is a key point of contention.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth asserted that the uranium is “deeply buried and under constant surveillance,” assuring that “no Iranian nuclear weapons will emerge.” However, the 15-point plan is more definitive, demanding Iran halt missile development, cease long-range missile production, and stop transferring drones and military supplies to regional allies. The Pentagon claims 80% of Iran’s missile sites, 80% of its air defenses, and 90% of its weapons factories have been crippled, dismantling the country’s strategic shield.
Iran insists any resolution must recognize its right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes, as outlined in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Oman, which had mediated prior to the war, suggested a feasible deal is being considered. Still, the question lingers: will the US accept enrichment as part of a lasting agreement? Trump’s team has not confirmed whether their plan explicitly limits this activity, though they emphasize Iran’s inability to acquire nuclear weapons.
The situation also involves Iran’s control over critical maritime routes. Its recent readiness to reopen the Strait of Hormuz hints at potential relief for global trade, which has faced strain due to ongoing tensions. However, the true test of progress lies in reconciling the divergent perspectives between the two nations and securing a unified strategy.
