A significant proposal for a dual-phase ceasefire, which involves the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, may come into effect today. Iran and the United States have been presented with a framework known as the “Islamabad Accord” by Pakistan. Sources suggest that this accord could be finalized on Monday. The proposal includes a 45-day ceasefire and the reopening of the crucial Strait of Hormuz, according to two officials cited by the Associated Press.
Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has reportedly been in communication with US Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The proposed plan entails face-to-face discussions in Islamabad, with a timeframe of 15 to 20 days allocated for reaching a comprehensive agreement.
Reports of progress from mediators coincided with a rise in oil prices on Monday, with West Texas Intermediate surpassing $112 a barrel, and Brent crude exceeding $110.
According to a report by American outlet Axios, discussions between the US, Iran, and regional mediators revolve around a 45-day ceasefire as part of a comprehensive strategy to end the conflict.
However, a critique published by the Tasnim News Agency on Monday, affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), dismissed the concept of a temporary truce. The report argued that Iran’s policy does not align with a 45-day ceasefire amid ongoing threats. Tehran has consistently opposed temporary truces, contending that they could pave the way for future hostilities. The report emphasized that Iran insists on firm guarantees against future US and Israeli attacks to bring an end to the conflict and reshape the dynamics of the Strait of Hormuz permanently.
The developments follow provocative statements made by Donald Trump, who issued threats against Iran’s infrastructure, linking the opening of the shipping route to high-stakes ultimatums. Trump’s deadline, initially set for Monday, has been extended multiple times, with the latest deadline set for Tuesday evening.
In the midst of these tensions, Iran has targeted infrastructure in Gulf nations and issued warnings about potential disruptions in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in the Arabian Peninsula.