Negotiators face huge task to close gaps in rival Iran peace proposals

Negotiators face huge task to close gaps in rival Iran peace proposals

As the clock ticked toward a self-imposed deadline, US President Donald Trump declared a two-week pause in hostilities, aiming to stabilize the conflict. The breakthrough came amid a stark warning from Washington to erase Iran’s “civilisation” entirely. With talks set to convene in Islamabad, Pakistan is expected to mediate between American and Iranian representatives, possibly by Friday. Yet, significant disparities persist in the proposals, complicating the path to resolution.

Proposals and Discrepancies

Trump shared a 10-point framework from Iran, which he deemed “workable” for further discussion. Meanwhile, the US had presented a 15-point plan, with its chief negotiators suggesting it could conclude the war. However, neither document has been officially disclosed, despite leaked versions circulating widely. These reports reveal a stark contrast in the priorities of each side.

“A lot of details are not very clear,” said Anwar Gargash, a senior advisor to the UAE president. “There are different statements coming out of Iran, from Washington and from the Pakistani mediator. So, we need to reconcile the details of these statements and understand exactly what the way forward is.”

Central Issues in Debate

The claim that Iran sought to develop nuclear weapons has long been Washington’s justification for military action. Despite Tehran’s denials, American officials argue that the 12-day war and recent attacks have sufficiently weakened Iran’s capacity to resume a nuclear program. Nevertheless, uncertainties linger over the 440kg of highly enriched uranium Iran retains, reportedly hidden beneath the ruins of its Nuclear Technology/Research Centre in Isfahan following last year’s strikes.

“Their dust is deeply buried and watched 24/7,” US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters. “There will be no Iranian nuclear weapons. Period. Full stop.”

Iran insists that any agreement must acknowledge its right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes, as outlined in the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Oman, which had acted as a mediator prior to the war, hinted that a sustainable deal was already on the table. But the question remains: will the US consent to any form of enrichment?

Missile Program and Strategic Concerns

Trump’s 15-point plan reportedly demands that Iran halt major nuclear facilities, cease uranium enrichment domestically, and surrender stockpiles to international oversight. Yet, when asked about these terms, Hegseth emphasized that Iran would “never have a nuclear weapon or the capability to get a path to one,” a slightly more cautious phrasing.

Iran’s missile capabilities have also been a focal point. The US argues that its advanced missile program, which shielded nuclear ambitions, is now severely damaged. According to Gen Dan Caine, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, 80% of Iran’s missile facilities, 80% of its air defence systems, and 90% of its weapons factories have been destroyed. This shift may pressure Iran to accept restrictions on its missile and drone programs.

Strategic Implications

Iran’s recent control over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global waterway, has been a major strategic gain. The country’s apparent readiness to reopen the strait indicates potential relief for the global economy, which has faced mounting pressure from disruptions. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, however, remains central to navigating these complex negotiations and ensuring alignment between the two nations’ visions.