A senior Iranian official described a US proposal aimed at ending nearly four weeks of conflict as biased and unjust. The proposal, delivered to Tehran through Pakistan, was thoroughly examined by top Iranian leaders and the Supreme Leader’s representative on Wednesday night. The official criticized the plan for failing to meet essential conditions for success and serving primarily US and Israeli interests. Despite the absence of a viable peace negotiation framework, diplomatic efforts continue.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump acknowledged Iran’s strong negotiating skills but expressed uncertainty about reaching a deal to conclude the war. Since February 28, Iran has launched attacks against Israel, US military bases, and Gulf states, while effectively blocking fuel exports through the Strait of Hormuz following US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
During a White House Cabinet meeting, Trump stated that Iran now has the opportunity to abandon its nuclear ambitions permanently and pursue a new direction. He added, “We’ll see if they want to do it. If they don’t, we’re their worst nightmare. In the meantime, we’ll just keep blowing them away.” The ongoing conflict has pushed oil prices to $105 per barrel and caused stock markets to decline amid growing doubts about a ceasefire, impacting global sectors such as plastics, technology, retail, and tourism.
In a significant development, Trump suggested Iran could demonstrate goodwill by allowing 10 oil tankers, including some flying the Pakistani flag, to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The president, who plans to deploy thousands of troops to the Middle East amid speculation of a ground invasion, also mentioned the possibility of seizing control of Iran’s oil resources, though he provided no further details.
A document sent by Iran to the United Nations on Tuesday indicated that “non-hostile vessels” could transit the strait if coordinated with Iranian authorities. Following diplomatic efforts, a Thai oil tanker successfully passed through the strait, and Malaysia confirmed its vessels were also permitted transit, signaling a partial easing of restrictions. Iran’s embassy in Madrid stated it would welcome any requests from Spain regarding the strait, marking the first such offer to a European Union country.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that Washington had presented a “15-point action list” as a basis for negotiations to end the conflict. Pakistan’s foreign minister revealed that indirect talks between the US and Iran are ongoing through messages relayed by Islamabad, with Turkey and Egypt also supporting mediation efforts. However, any potential negotiations face significant challenges due to the entrenched positions of both parties.
The 15-point proposal reportedly demands Iran dismantle its nuclear program, limit its missile capabilities, and effectively relinquish control of the Strait of Hormuz. Conversely, Iran has adopted a firmer stance since the war’s onset, insisting on guarantees against future military actions, compensation for damages, and formal control over the strait. Regional sources also indicate Iran has insisted that Lebanon be included in any ceasefire agreement.
Trump has not disclosed the identities of Iranian officials with whom the US is negotiating, noting that many senior figures have been killed during the conflict. Notably, Israel removed Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf from its target list after Pakistan urged Washington to persuade Israel not to target them. An Israeli military spokesperson declined to comment on this development.
A Western diplomat characterized the US position as “maximalist,” questioning whether Washington aims to end the war or merely stabilize markets ahead of a possible ground offensive.
On Thursday, Iran launched multiple missile barrages targeting Israeli cities including Tel Aviv, Haifa, and a Palestinian town in central Israel. At least one ballistic missile struck Tel Aviv, while others carried cluster munitions causing damage to homes and vehicles. Israel’s ambulance service reported one fatality in Nahariya following a rocket attack by Hezbollah on the northern city.
In Iran, missile strikes hit residential areas in Bandar Abbas and a village near Shiraz, resulting in the deaths of two teenage brothers, local news agencies. A university building in Isfahan was also reportedly struck. US and Israeli officials stated that Israel had killed the naval commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and claimed to have numerous additional targets as it continues to degrade Iranian military capabilities.
