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

With just moments left before a set deadline, US President Donald Trump revealed a two-week pause in hostilities, aimed at preventing the destruction of Iran’s “civilisation.” The upcoming talks, set to take place in Islamabad, will involve American and Iranian representatives, possibly beginning as early as Friday. Despite this progress, significant differences remain between the two parties, particularly regarding the core framework of the negotiations.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi shared that the US had presented a 15-point proposal, which could potentially conclude the conflict. In contrast, Trump’s team claimed Iran’s own 10-point plan offered a “workable basis on which to negotiate.” However, neither proposal has been officially disclosed, though leaked versions have circulated, highlighting stark disparities in their objectives.

Clarifying the Uncertainties

“The details are still unclear,” said Anwar Gargash, the UAE president’s senior diplomatic adviser. “There are conflicting statements from Iran, Washington, and the Pakistani mediator. Reconciling these will be crucial to determining the next steps.” The White House has insisted that the Iranian plan mentioned in the media is not the one presented to US officials, complicating efforts to reach a consensus.

One of the primary concerns is the accusation that Iran is advancing its nuclear capabilities. This claim has long been a Washington justification for military action, even as Tehran has consistently denied it. Officials note that the 12-day war and recent US-Israeli strikes have dealt substantial damage to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, but the fate of 440kg of highly enriched uranium remains uncertain.

“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 asserts 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 conflict, suggested a viable solution might now be within reach. Yet, the question of whether the US will accept enrichment remains unresolved.

Trump’s 15-point plan reportedly demands Iran dismantle major nuclear facilities, halt uranium enrichment, and transfer stockpiles abroad. While Hegseth affirmed that Iran would “never have a nuclear weapon or the capability to get a path to one,” the proposal also includes suspending ballistic missile development and halting military exports to regional allies. The Pentagon claims 80% of Iran’s missile facilities and 90% of its weapons factories have been destroyed, dismantling the country’s strategic shield.

The potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, signals a possible shift in Iran’s posture. This development could alleviate recent economic pressures on global trade. However, the regime’s willingness to agree to restrictions on missile and drone programs is still under scrutiny, as tensions continue to shape the negotiations.