ISLAMABAD: Iran and the United States have received a fresh proposal aimed at halting ongoing hostilities, with the plan potentially taking effect as early as Monday, according to sources familiar with the diplomatic effort.
The framework reportedly developed by Pakistan has been shared with both sides and outlines a two-stage process. It begins with an immediate ceasefire, followed by negotiations toward a broader and more durable settlement.
Sources indicated that the initial understanding would be formalized through a memorandum of understanding, likely finalized electronically, with Pakistan acting as the primary channel for communication between the parties.
Earlier reports suggested that discussions are centered around a possible 45-day truce as part of a phased agreement that could eventually pave the way for a permanent resolution to the conflict.
High-level contacts have intensified, with Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir reportedly in continuous communication with senior officials, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.
Under the proposal, hostilities would cease immediately, allowing for the reopening of the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz. Negotiators would then have a 15 to 20-day window to finalize a comprehensive agreement.
The initiative informally referred to as the “Islamabad Accord” also envisions a regional mechanism for managing the waterway, with final face-to-face talks expected to take place in Islamabad.
So far, neither Washington nor Tehran has issued an official response. Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, Tahir Andrabi, declined to comment on the development.
Iran has previously signaled that any long-term deal must include guarantees against future attacks by the United States or Israel. Officials in Tehran have acknowledged receiving messages through mediators such as Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt.
According to sources, a final agreement could involve Iran committing to refrain from pursuing nuclear weapons in exchange for sanctions relief and the unfreezing of overseas assets.
Despite intensified diplomatic outreach from both civilian and military channels, Iran has yet to formally respond to the latest proposal. Some sources indicated that efforts backed by Pakistan, China, and the United States have not yet secured a firm commitment from Tehran.
The renewed push for diplomacy comes amid escalating tensions that threaten shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global energy supplies.
In recent days, Donald Trump has publicly urged a swift resolution, warning of serious consequences if a ceasefire is not achieved promptly.
With energy markets already reacting to the uncertainty, global attention remains focused on whether this latest initiative can prevent further escalation and stabilize the region.
