Sources close to the mediation process indicate that while the US and Iran have not conducted a second round of discussions in Pakistan, they are not as distanced from each other as it appears.
According to sources, vigorous diplomacy is still taking place out of the public eye, and current discussions revolve around a phased approach where the initial segment of a possible agreement would aim at reverting to the pre-war status and allowing unrestricted and toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The matter of Iran’s nuclear initiative – which the US and Israel both referenced as their justification for war – would be dealt with subsequently.
US President Donald Trump has asserted that any agreement would necessitate Iran relinquishing its stock of near bomb-grade uranium and abandoning enrichment, conditions that Iran has consistently rejected.
Sources indicate that mediators are pressuring both parties to come to an agreement, emphasizing that the upcoming days are particularly critical. looming above it all is the possibility that the US might choose to withdraw and revert to conflict.
About the Author
