Iran Reviews U.S. Peace Proposal as Diplomatic Talks Advance
Iran is reportedly reviewing a new proposal from the United States aimed at ending the conflict between the two countries, which has now lasted for more than two months.
Despite growing optimism surrounding diplomacy, President Donald Trump has continued warning that military operations could resume if negotiations fail to produce a final agreement.
U.S. and Iran Preparing for New Peace Talks
According to multiple reports, Washington and Tehran have been working with international mediators on a one-page, 14-point framework designed to restart negotiations toward a long-term peace agreement.
The Wall Street Journal reported that formal discussions are expected to begin next week in Pakistan.
The negotiations could continue for roughly a month and are expected to focus on several major issues, including Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, uranium enrichment limits, and international inspections.
However, significant disagreements reportedly remain unresolved.
Trump Says Talks Have Been Positive
Speaking at the White House on Wednesday, Trump suggested that recent discussions with Tehran had progressed positively over the previous 24 hours.
The president also claimed the United States had effectively “won” the conflict.
Earlier in the day, Trump stated on social media that the military operation launched jointly by the United States and Israel in late February could end if Iran accepts the proposed conditions.
At the same time, he warned that military action could intensify further if no agreement is reached.
Iran Sends Conflicting Signals on Proposal
Iranian officials have delivered mixed responses regarding the latest U.S. peace framework.
Iran’s foreign minister reportedly said the country would provide its official position to Pakistani mediators after reviewing the proposal.
However, separate media reports cited an Iranian official criticizing the plan and describing it as heavily favoring American interests.
According to CNN, Iran is expected to deliver its response to mediators by Thursday.
Global Markets Rally on Peace Deal Optimism
International financial markets moved higher on Thursday as investors reacted positively to growing hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough.
The rally followed another strong session on Wall Street, where both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite reached fresh record highs.
Investor sentiment improved further on expectations that a peace agreement could eventually reopen the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
Strait of Hormuz Remains Critical to Oil Markets
The Strait of Hormuz, located off Iran’s southern coast, handles roughly 20% of global oil shipments, making it one of the most strategically important waterways in the world.
Brent crude prices hovered near $100 per barrel on Thursday, significantly below recent conflict-driven highs but still elevated compared to pre-war levels.
Trump also stated on social media that the Strait of Hormuz would become “OPEN TO ALL” if a peace deal is finalized.
However, uncertainty surrounding shipping traffic remains elevated as both the United States and Iran continue maintaining blockades around the route.
U.S. Military Stops Iranian Oil Tanker
According to U.S. Central Command, American forces intercepted an Iranian-flagged oil tanker on Wednesday morning after it allegedly attempted to breach the U.S. blockade near Iranian ports.
The military stated that warning rounds were fired toward the vessel’s rudder as it moved toward a port in the Gulf of Oman.
