Iran sets three-stage proposal for talks with US

Iran has presented a three-step proposal as a condition for resuming peace talks with the United States, according to Iran’s state media.

The proposed framework reportedly focuses on ending ongoing conflicts, securing strategic waterways, and addressing nuclear issues in a phased approach.

Under the first phase, Iran calls for a permanent end to hostilities involving Iran and Lebanon, along with binding guarantees against future attacks on these countries.

The second phase proposes discussions on the governance and security arrangements of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.

Only after progress on the first two phases, Iran says, would it be willing to engage in negotiations on its nuclear programme.

Washington has long demanded limits on Iran’s uranium enrichment and removal of enriched stockpiles from the country.

Reacting to the proposal, a White House spokesperson said the issues involved are highly sensitive and that the United States will not engage in negotiations through the media.

The spokesperson added that any agreement must serve US national interests and reiterated that Iran will not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.

The development comes as the latest round of indirect talks between the two sides ended without any breakthrough.