According to Reuters today (April 6), sources familiar with the matter have revealed that Iran and the United States have received a proposal for ceasefire and cessation of hostilities drafted by Pakistan. It is reported that Pakistan’s Army Chief held overnight discussions with U.S. Vice President Vance, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy Witkoff, and Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi. Under the proposal, the ceasefire would take effect immediately, the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened, followed by a 15- to 20-day period dedicated to finalizing a comprehensive agreement.

Based on multiple sources, this ceasefire initiative proposed by Pakistan remains at present merely an aspiration, with an uncertain outlook. The positions of both sides remain vastly distant, placing them at a critical juncture in strategic bargaining. While the U.S. has shown strong willingness to accept it, Iran’s response has been notably cautious, reflecting significant internal disagreements.

The proposal is referred to as the "Islamabad Accord," with a core strategy of a "two-step approach":

Immediate Ceasefire and Strait Reopening: Both the U.S. and Iran are required to immediately halt hostile actions, while Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz.

Time-Limited Negotiations for a Comprehensive Agreement: Within 15 to 20 days after the ceasefire, negotiations will begin on a final deal, centered on a “nuclear-for-sanctions” framework—where Iran limits its nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions and unfreezing assets.

Currently, Trump has repeatedly threatened that if Iran does not reopen the strait by 8 p.m. local time on April 7, U.S. forces will destroy Iran’s energy infrastructure. On the other hand, the U.S. may already have accepted the proposal and is reportedly exerting influence through Pakistan.

Iran’s Position: Cautious and Firm

Although Iran has confirmed receipt of the proposal, its stance remains firm and uncompromising.

Explicitly Rejects “Temporary Ceasefire for Strait Opening”: Iran has repeatedly stated it will not reopen the Strait of Hormuz simply for a temporary ceasefire.

Lacks Trust in U.S. Good Faith: Iran believes the U.S. “is not yet prepared for permanent peace,” fearing a repeat of past scenarios where truces in Gaza were followed by renewed conflict.

Rejects Trump’s Ultimatum: Iran clearly states it will not accept the U.S.’s 48-hour ultimatum, insisting that “it will not be forced into decisions under pressure.”

The situation remains deadlocked. To break the impasse, a key contradiction must be resolved: the U.S. demands Iran “open first, then negotiate,” whereas Iran insists on “negotiate first, then open.” This dispute over sequence is currently the biggest obstacle to progress in negotiations.

In summary, this ceasefire proposal represents a high-intensity, high-risk diplomatic effort following 38 days of ongoing warfare and heavy costs borne by both sides. While Iran is reviewing the proposal, its public position conflicts significantly with the core terms of the plan. Intense negotiations continue among all parties, and whether an agreement can ultimately be reached remains uncertain.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1861718027084876/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.