What is Iran’s latest proposal to US to end war? Ceasefire first, nuclear talks later

As of April 27, 2026, Iran has reportedly submitted a new three-stage proposal to the United States aimed at ending the ongoing war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Delivered through Pakistani mediators, the hallmark of the plan is the deferral of nuclear negotiations to a later date, prioritizing an immediate end to hostilities first.

The Three-Stage Formula

The proposal outlines a phased approach to de-escalation:

• Stage 1: End of War: Demands a complete cessation of the conflict with formal guarantees against its resumption, specifically including protections for both Iran and Lebanon.
• Stage 2: Maritime Security: Once a ceasefire is established, the parties would discuss the management and administration of the Strait of Hormuz to ensure secure traffic and lift the current blockade.
• Stage 3: Nuclear Negotiations: Discussions regarding Iran's nuclear programme and uranium enrichment would only begin after the first two stages are successfully implemented. 

Context and Current Status

The proposal arrives during a diplomatic stalemate following the collapse of face-to-face talks in Islamabad.

• Internal Division: Reports from Axios suggest the plan aims to bypass internal disagreements within the Iranian leadership regarding nuclear concessions.
• US Reaction: President Trump has acknowledged receiving a "new paper" but has expressed skepticism, maintaining that the naval blockade will continue as leverage.
• Trump's Stance: While Trump has extended the current truce indefinitely, he has warned that the US will not prematurely lift maritime pressure and that Iran must eventually commit to “zero enrichment”.