Iran Reviews New US Proposal as Gulf War Deal Nears

Iran said Wednesday it is reviewing a new proposal from the United States after multiple sources indicated Washington and Tehran are moving closer to a potential agreement aimed at ending the war in the Gulf.

According to Reuters, the proposal could establish a temporary framework for peace while leaving more difficult issues — including Iran’s nuclear program — for future negotiations.

Iran says response will be delivered soon

An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, cited by Iran’s ISNA news agency, said Tehran plans to respond through Pakistan, which hosted the only direct peace talks between the two sides during the conflict.

Sources familiar with the negotiations said the proposal is a one-page memorandum containing 14 points designed to formally end hostilities between the U.S. and Iran.

A Pakistani source involved in the mediation told Reuters that negotiators are close to finalizing the agreement.

“We will close this very soon. We are getting close,” the source said.

Trump claims “great progress” in negotiations

U.S. President Donald Trump said on social media that the war could end if Iran accepts the terms already discussed.

Trump also announced a temporary pause to “Project Freedom,” a naval mission intended to reopen shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz after recent disruptions caused by the conflict.

In his statement, Trump warned that military operations could intensify if Iran rejects the deal.

“Assuming Iran agrees to give what has been agreed to,” Trump wrote, “the already legendary Epic Fury will be at an end.”

Oil prices fall sharply on hopes of peace

Reports of possible progress in negotiations triggered a major reaction in global markets.

Benchmark Brent crude prices reportedly dropped around 11%, while global stock markets rose as investors reacted positively to the possibility of restored oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

The waterway remains one of the world’s most important energy trade routes.

Key nuclear issues remain unresolved

Despite signs of progress, several major disputes remain unresolved.

Sources familiar with the negotiations said the preliminary memorandum would delay detailed discussions about Iran’s nuclear activities, sanctions relief, and regional security issues.

The proposal reportedly includes future talks about limiting Iran’s uranium enrichment program. However, it does not immediately address Iran’s existing stockpile of highly enriched uranium, one of Washington’s primary concerns.

The proposal also appears to avoid direct mention of U.S. demands related to Iran’s missile program and support for regional proxy militias.

Israel reportedly preparing for possible escalation

While the White House and Iranian officials have not publicly confirmed details of the proposal, an Israeli source told Reuters that Israel was not aware that a final agreement was close.

According to the source, Israel is instead preparing for a possible escalation in fighting.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said during a visit to China that Tehran continues to seek “a fair and comprehensive agreement.”

Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Rezaei criticized the reported proposal on social media, describing it as “more of an American wish-list than a reality.”

Shipping attacks continue in Hormuz Strait

Even as negotiations continue, tensions remain high in the region.

A French shipping company said one of its container ships was struck in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week, injuring crew members who were later evacuated.

The incident highlights the ongoing risks to international shipping despite diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire.