Iran has set out the terms under which it would consider ending its war with the United States, responding to a rejected American proposal with a five-point counter-plan that reflects both its red lines and its strategic ambitions. The conditions, submitted through diplomatic intermediaries, include demands for war reparations, security guarantees, and continued Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz. The move injected fresh complexity into already difficult diplomatic efforts.
The Iranian conditions emerged after Tehran officially rejected the US ceasefire framework delivered by Pakistan. The American plan was reportedly broad, covering nuclear disarmament, missile restrictions, sanctions relief, and Hormuz navigation rights. Iran’s leadership found these terms unacceptable, with one official describing them as maximalist. Foreign Minister Araghchi confirmed the proposals had been reviewed at the highest levels but said Iran was not currently willing to negotiate.
Iran’s five demands paint a picture of a government seeking acknowledgement of the damage it has suffered and guarantees it will not face future attacks. The demand for reparations is politically sensitive in Washington, while the Hormuz condition directly conflicts with a central US war objective. Nevertheless, both sides appeared to be leaving open the possibility of in-person talks, potentially as early as Friday in Turkey or Pakistan.
President Trump argued that Iran’s public rejection masked private interest in reaching a deal, telling supporters that Iranian leaders feared retaliation from their own citizens and possibly from the US if they were seen negotiating openly. China’s foreign minister presented a more measured assessment, suggesting that both parties had signalled enough flexibility to offer hope. Pakistan and Egypt both expressed optimism about the prospects for direct talks.
Israel pressed ahead with its own objectives, conducting major airstrikes across Iran including near Isfahan and in Tehran, as well as continuing ground operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iranian forces responded with missile strikes on Israel and drone attacks on Gulf states. The US military said it had degraded over two-thirds of Iran’s missile, drone, and naval production facilities. With Trump’s Beijing trip scheduled for May 14, the White House appeared to be hoping the conflict could be resolved within weeks, though the gap between the two sides’ positions suggested otherwise.