Iran Rejects Initial U.S. Proposal to End Middle East War, Sets Five Conditions

Iran has rejected an initial U.S. proposal aimed at ending the Middle East war, delivering its response through Pakistan, which has acted as a key regional mediator.

Reuters reported on March 25 that Iranian officials described the U.S. proposal as "unreasonable" and said it was intended to increase pressure rather than foster a genuine settlement. Tehran outlined five conditions for ending the conflict: a full halt to what it terms aggression and assassinations, guarantees against renewed hostilities, compensation for damages, an end to fighting across all fronts, and international recognition of Iran's sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.

The exchange occurs amid intensified backchannel diplomacy as Washington explores avenues to de-escalate tensions, despite ongoing public confrontations and military actions. Reports indicated that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf were temporarily removed from a U.S.-Israeli strike target list for several days, a step seen as keeping the door open for potential high-level talks.

Washington has reportedly proposed a 15-point framework for resolving the conflict, though Iranian officials have publicly denied any meaningful direct negotiations with the United States are underway.

Iran's rejection signals that diplomatic efforts persist but remain fragile, with progress hinging on both sides shifting from pressure tactics to substantive compromises.