On Monday, Iran presented the United States with a comprehensive 10-point proposal aimed at securing a lasting peace agreement, rejecting the temporary ceasefire initially suggested by Washington, according to the state news agency IRNA.
This proposal, conveyed through Pakistan acting as a mediator, calls for the cessation of hostilities in the region, ensures safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and demands the lifting of U.S. sanctions.
Iran's Firm Stand on Permanent Peace
Tehran's proposal dismisses the idea of a temporary ceasefire, emphasizing the importance of a permanent resolution that considers its own conditions.
Previously, the United States had relayed a 15-point proposal to Iran via Islamabad, which Tehran deemed excessive and unacceptable.
Ultimatum and Threats from Washington
The Iranian counterproposal arrives just hours before the deadline set by President Donald Trump, who has threatened military action against power plants and bridges if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by Tuesday, April 7, at 8:00 PM Washington time.
Meanwhile, Trump stated in a Fox News interview that he remains hopeful for a timely agreement, noting ongoing deep negotiations with Tehran.
Multilateral Negotiations in Progress
According to Axios, citing four sources from the U.S., Israel, and the region, negotiations are underway through mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey, as well as direct text messages between special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry's spokesman, Ismail Bagaei, firmly rejected any talks held under duress, stating, "Negotiation is entirely incompatible with ultimatums, crimes, or threats of war crimes."
Bagaei also dismissed the notion of a temporary ceasefire, labeling it "a pause for regrouping and rearming to continue the crime."
Backdrop of Operation Epic Fury
This ongoing conflict is part of Operation Epic Fury, launched by the United States and Israel on February 28, 2026, with the stated goal of dismantling Iran's nuclear program and missile capabilities.
On the same day, Israel targeted and killed Brigadier General Majid Khademi, head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard's Intelligence Organization, in an airstrike on Tehran, while also striking the country's largest petrochemical plant in Asaluyeh.
Four sources consulted by Axios describe the chances of reaching an agreement before the ultimatum's expiration as slim, characterizing the current negotiations as "the last chance" to prevent a dramatic escalation.
"Our demand is the end of the imposed war, along with guarantees that this vicious cycle will not repeat," stated a source close to the negotiations.
Key Questions on U.S.-Iran Negotiations
What is included in Iran's 10-point proposal to the U.S.?
Iran's 10-point proposal includes the end of hostilities, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and the lifting of U.S. sanctions.
Why did Iran reject the U.S. 15-point proposal?
Iran found the U.S. 15-point proposal to be excessive and unacceptable, preferring its own terms for a permanent resolution.
What is Operation Epic Fury?
Operation Epic Fury is a joint military operation by the U.S. and Israel, launched to dismantle Iran's nuclear program and missile capabilities.