US sends 15-point peace plan to Iran via Pakistan to end Middle East war
The proposal targets Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and the Strait of Hormuz, with Israel’s role unclear. Tehran has not confirmed acceptance, and the White House says talks are underway even as it extends a 48-hour deadline on energy targets.
Mar 25, 2026, 11:51 AM EDT
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Why it matters:
- A potential framework could de-escalate a war that is disrupting global energy flows and pressuring oil prices.
- The plan’s scope—nuclear limits, missile constraints, and Hormuz access—touches core security and economic interests for the US, Israel, and Gulf states.
Driving the news:
- The United States sent a 15-point peace proposal to Iran via Pakistan to end the war in the Middle East, The New York Times reported, citing sources familiar with the talks.
- The plan addresses Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs and maritime access through the Strait of Hormuz, where Tehran has been complicating commercial shipping and pushing up oil prices.
- President Donald Trump said US officials are talking with Tehran to end the war and that Iran agreed not to develop nuclear weapons, while Iran officially denies any ceasefire negotiations.
The big picture:
- Washington wants Iran to cap uranium enrichment to prevent a bomb and limit missile ranges to reduce threats to allies.
- The proposal also seeks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for about a fifth of global oil and gas exports, easing supply constraints and price spikes.
State of play:
- It is unclear whether Israel helped craft or endorses the plan, and whether Tehran will accept it as a basis for talks.
- The White House extended a 48-hour deadline to strike Iranian energy facilities by five days, signaling a push to create leverage while talks proceed.
What they're saying:
- “We are in negotiations with them right now,” Trump said, adding Iran “no longer has leaders” and agreed not to develop nuclear weapons.
- Iran’s official stance denies any ceasefire negotiations with the US, even as it acknowledges contacts.
What to watch:
- Whether Iran signals acceptance or counter-terms, and if Israel publicly aligns with the proposal.
- Any movement on Hormuz access and whether shipping resumes without disruption.
The bottom line:
- A US-backed 15-point plan is on the table, but acceptance and Israel’s role remain the key unknowns that will determine if talks translate into a deal.