A draft proposal outlining a 45-day ceasefire between Iran and the United States has been presented to both sides as diplomatic efforts intensify to de-escalate tensions.
According to the Associated Press, the plan includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz a vital global oil route as part of efforts to pave the way for a longer-term settlement.
The proposal follows ongoing discussions involving the two countries and regional mediators, with reports suggesting the talks are being facilitated by officials from Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey.
US media outlet Axios reported that communication between the parties has also taken place indirectly through messages exchanged between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
The diplomatic push comes after US President Donald Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face possible military action.
However, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran would not agree to reopen the waterway in exchange for what it described as a temporary ceasefire.
The official said Iran remained sceptical about Washington’s commitment to a lasting agreement and rejected what it sees as pressure tactics.
Tehran has confirmed it is reviewing a proposal for an immediate ceasefire put forward by Pakistan, but insisted it would not accept externally imposed deadlines.
Iranian officials have also signalled concerns about entering into a temporary truce without guarantees, citing fears of a scenario where hostilities could resume despite a formal agreement.
Sources quoted by Axios said the likelihood of reaching even a partial agreement within the next 48 hours appeared low.
Under the proposed framework, the first phase would involve an immediate 45-day ceasefire, during which negotiations toward a permanent settlement would take place.
A second phase would focus on securing a comprehensive agreement to end the conflict, with the possibility of extending the ceasefire if more time is needed for talks.
The developments come amid heightened tensions, with President Trump warning of severe consequences if no deal is reached.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has reportedly been in continuous contact with senior US and Iranian officials as efforts to broker a breakthrough continue.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
