Markets rejoicing though.
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Iran confirms talks with US, but warns ceasefire depends on final deal being reached.
Summary:
- Iran confirms 10-point proposal submitted via Pakistan
- US-Iran talks set to begin April 10 in Islamabad
- Negotiations aimed at finalising deal within ~2 weeks
- Proposal includes Hormuz control, US withdrawal demands
- Iran stresses talks do not mean end of war
- Ceasefire remains conditional on agreement details
- Window for de-escalation open but fragile
Iran has confirmed it is engaging in negotiations with the United States following the proposed ceasefire, outlining a structured path toward talks while making clear that any end to the war remains conditional and far from guaranteed.
According to Iranian state media, the country’s Supreme National Security Council said it had submitted a 10-point proposal to Washington via Pakistan, providing the basis for ongoing negotiations. The talks are set to begin on April 10 in Islamabad, aligning with earlier indications that Pakistan is acting as a key intermediary in the process.
Iran signalled that the negotiations could extend beyond the initial timeline if both sides agree, but also emphasised that the objective is to translate what it described as “battlefield achievements” into political outcomes within a maximum timeframe of around two weeks. This aligns broadly with the ceasefire window proposed by Donald Trump, suggesting a coordinated—though still tentative—framework for de-escalation.
Details of Iran’s proposal indicate significant demands remain on the table. These include controlled transit through the Strait of Hormuz under coordination with Iranian armed forces, an end to military action against Iran and its regional allies, and the withdrawal of US combat forces from bases across the region. These conditions underscore that, while talks are progressing, the gap between the two sides may still be substantial.
Crucially, Iranian officials stressed that entering negotiations does not equate to the end of hostilities. They made clear that any formal conclusion to the war will depend on finalising details in line with the proposed framework, reinforcing the conditional nature of the ceasefire and the risk that fighting could resume if talks stall.
Separate reporting from Axios confirmed that the first round of negotiations is scheduled for Friday in Islamabad, further solidifying expectations that the coming days will be critical in determining whether the diplomatic push gains traction.
Taken together, the developments point to a narrow but meaningful window for de-escalation. However, the combination of ambitious demands, tight timelines, and persistent mistrust between the parties means the situation remains highly fluid. While markets may initially respond positively to signs of dialogue, the risk of setbacks remains elevated, particularly given the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and the broader regional implications
