Washington, DC [US], March 26 (ANI): United States Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff said Thursday that a 15-point action plan forming the framework for a potential peace deal with Iran has been circulated through the Pakistani government, which is acting as an intermediary.
Witkoff made the remarks during a White House Cabinet meeting in the presence of US President Donald Trump, indicating that diplomatic engagement is ongoing despite heightened tensions.
“We have, along with your foreign policy team, presented a 15-point action list that forms the framework for a peace deal. This has been circulated through the Pakistani government, acting as the mediator, and this has resulted in strong and positive messaging and talks,” Witkoff said.
He emphasized that the discussions remain sensitive and that the administration is maintaining confidentiality regarding specific terms.
“These are sensitive diplomatic discussions, and you have directed us to maintain confidentiality on the specific terms and not negotiate through the news media. We will see where things lead, and if we can convince Iran that this is the inflection point with no good alternatives for them, other than more death and destruction,” he added.
Iran has responded negatively to the US proposal, insisting that any cessation of hostilities will occur only on its own terms and timeline, according to a senior political-security official cited by state broadcaster Press TV. The proposal has reportedly been described by Tehran as one-sided and excessive.
Witkoff praised Trump’s approach, describing the policy of “peace through strength” as an effective tool for achieving a diplomatic resolution.
“We have strong signs that a deal is possible, and if it happens, it will be beneficial for Iran, the region, and the world at large. Your policy of peace through strength remains the most effective path to resolution,” he said.
He added that Iran may be seeking an “off-ramp” following recent US pressure, noting that signals of willingness to consider peace proposals have been well received.
“We have conveyed that your preference is peace and that it should remain the priority. Along with the 15-point framework, we have delivered a clear message: do not miscalculate again,” Witkoff said.
However, Iranian officials have reiterated their position that the war will end only when Tehran decides its conditions have been met.
According to the Press TV report, Iran has outlined several conditions for ending the conflict, including a complete halt to hostilities, guarantees against renewed aggression, compensation for damages, a comprehensive end to the conflict across all fronts, and international recognition of its authority over the Strait of Hormuz.
The official added that these conditions build upon earlier demands presented during negotiations in Geneva prior to the escalation on February 28.
“No negotiations will take place before these conditions are met,” the official said, adding that Iran will continue its defensive operations until then.
The official further stated that “the end of the war will occur when Iran decides it should end, not when Trump envisions its conclusion.”
The conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran, which began on February 28, has significantly disrupted global energy supply chains and heightened geopolitical tensions. (ANI)
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