Iran has refuted claims of exchanging new written messages with the United States, dismissing recent media reports as “fabricated” and aimed at influencing global markets rather than reflecting reality. The semi-official Fars news agency, citing unnamed sources, stated that Iran is yet to respond to the latest US message delivered through Pakistan. Tehran is currently evaluating the US proposal and plans to reply after completing its assessment, as per Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei.
Last week, Iran sent a 14-point counterproposal to Washington through Pakistan in response to a nine-point US plan outlining conditions for conflict resolution. Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesman for the Iranian parliament’s national security and foreign policy committee, criticized Axios for publishing what he termed as a “US wish list” rather than the actual situation. He emphasized Iran’s stance against pressure and warned of a “harsh response” to any attacks or provocations.
Reports suggest that a potential agreement between Iran and the US could involve Iran suspending uranium enrichment in exchange for US sanctions relief, alongside both sides easing restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The duration of any potential enrichment pause is still being discussed, with proposals varying from five to 20 years. Meanwhile, Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported ongoing GPS disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, with marine tracking data indicating unusual vessel movements.
The conflict between the United States and Iran escalated following joint strikes by the US and Israel on Tehran and other Iranian cities on February 28, resulting in casualties on both sides. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks against Israel and US interests in the region, leading to increased tensions and control over the vital Strait of Hormuz. Despite a ceasefire coming into effect on April 8, talks between Iranian and US delegations in Islamabad on April 11-12 failed to yield an agreement, prompting the US to impose a blockade on the strait.
