A high-ranking diplomatic source has confirmed that Iran received a 15-point plan from the United States aimed at ending the US-Israeli war against the country, but Tehran described the proposal as "extremely maximalist and unreasonable." The source told Al Jazeera on Wednesday that the plan is "not beautiful even on paper," calling it deceptive and misleading in its presentation. This rejection comes as US President Donald Trump has allegedly claimed that negotiations are underway, despite Iranian denials and ongoing military escalations.
The source explained that Iran has a clear understanding of its ceasefire conditions and that no direct talks have occurred since the war began, with messages exchanged through mediators including Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey. Pakistan is positioned uniquely as a mediator due to its Shia minority and trade ties with Iran, while Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stated Cairo's readiness to host meetings if they serve de-escalation. Turkey's ruling AK Party vice chairman for foreign affairs, Harun Armagan, reportedly said Ankara has been "playing a role passing messages" between the sides.
In response, Iran presented its own five-point plan via Press TV, demanding a halt to killings of its officials, guarantees against future wars, reparations, an end to hostilities, and sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Conversely, the US proposal purportedly addresses sanctions relief, a rollback of Iran's nuclear program, missile limits, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with additional restrictions on Iran's support for armed groups, according to Egyptian and Pakistani officials involved in mediation.
The diplomatic efforts unfold against a backdrop of intensified conflict: Israel launched air attacks on Tehran, and the US regime deployed additional paratroopers and Marines to the region. Iran continued assaults on Israel and Gulf Arab states, including an attack that caused a major fire at Kuwait International Airport. Israeli officials were reportedly surprised by the ceasefire plan submission, highlighting the skepticism and mistrust that pervade the situation, with Iran remaining highly suspicious of US intentions following past attacks during diplomatic talks.
Source: www.aljazeera.com