The administration of President Donald Trump is weighing a new diplomatic proposal from Iran aimed at ending months of conflict that have disrupted global energy markets and exposed strains in the U.S. military reach.
The latest initiative, described as a 14-point plan, was transmitted through Pakistan, which has acted as a mediator between Washington and Tehran.
The proposal follows an earlier nine-point framework reportedly tabled by the United States.
Speaking on Saturday, President Trump confirmed receipt of the proposal but expressed uncertainty about its prospects.
“We’re studying it very carefully,” he said, adding, “I’m not sure we can make a deal with Iran at this stage.”
At the centre of the impasse are conflicting preconditions from both sides.
Tehran is pushing for a permanent cessation of hostilities, while Washington is demanding that Iran first lift its effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route handling roughly 20 per cent of the world’s oil and gas exports.
President Trump has also reiterated that Iran’s nuclear programme remains a “red line”, signalling that any agreement must include firm guarantees on Tehran’s nuclear capabilities.
Although both sides agreed to a ceasefire on April 8, brokered with Pakistan’s involvement, tensions have persisted.
The ceasefire followed an escalation triggered by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets in late February.
Despite the truce, maritime confrontations have continued in the Gulf. U.S. and Iranian forces have reportedly engaged in ship seizures, interceptions, and limited attacks, underscoring what analysts describe as a “shadow naval war” in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s restriction of maritime traffic, seen by Washington as a de facto blockade, was introduced in response to a U.S.-led naval embargo on Iranian ports, further complicating negotiations.
The prolonged stand-off has rattled international markets, particularly in the energy sector, as uncertainty over Gulf shipping lanes continues to threaten supply chains.
Diplomatic observers say the success of the latest proposal hinges on whether both sides can reconcile their core demands.
While Tehran appears focused on securing long-term guarantees against further attacks, Washington is prioritising freedom of navigation and nuclear constraints.
For now, the outcome remains uncertain, with President Trump’s decision likely to determine whether the fragile ceasefire evolves into a lasting peace or collapses back into open confrontation.
