Mediators push for 45-day truce in Iran war
The US, Iran, and regional mediators are discussing a potential 45-day ceasefire, Axios reports. Iran has rejected previous ceasefire proposals from Washington.
The United States, Iran, and regional mediators are negotiating terms for a potential 45-day ceasefire, according to an Axios report on Sunday citing four US, Israeli, and regional sources. Communication is occurring through Pakistani, Egyptian, and Turkish mediators, as well as via messages exchanged between Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. A US official indicated that several proposals have been presented in recent days, but none have been accepted by Tehran.
The mediators are discussing a two-phase arrangement, starting with a 45-day pause in fighting to allow negotiations on a permanent settlement. This halt could be extended if needed, while a final agreement would address the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the fate of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile. The report comes as President Trump extended the deadline of an ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz from Monday to Tuesday, threatening to strike Iranian civilian infrastructure if shipping is not restored.
Iran has repeatedly rejected ceasefire proposals and denied that it is negotiating with the United States. On Friday, Fars News Agency reported, citing officials, that Tehran had rejected a US proposal for a 48-hour ceasefire delivered through an intermediary. Iranian officials stated they would hold talks on their own terms, when they see fit.
Trump told Axios in a phone call that Washington was "in deep negotiations" with Tehran, but warned he would be "blowing up everything over there" if no deal is reached. The outlet described the chances of reaching an agreement before the deadline as "slim." Tehran also accused the US of effectively sabotaging Omani-mediated talks when Trump, together with Israel, ordered an attack on Iran on February 28.
