United States proposes phased nuclear deal and sanctions relief for Iran

Diplomatic sources involved in mediation between the United States and Iran have revealed a new American proposal, attached to a Qatari suggestion, aimed at a phased approach to nuclear negotiations. The proposal suggests a partial easing of the naval blockade in exchange for reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international navigation.

Following the reopening of the Strait, the plan outlines a transition to nuclear negotiations, which could eventually lead to the lifting of sanctions and the phased release of frozen Iranian assets, potentially reaching 30 percent upon the signing of a comprehensive nuclear agreement.

Iran has not yet responded to the proposal through mediators. Tehran is reportedly seeking clear American commitments to end the naval blockade before proceeding with other files. Ali Bagheri Kani, Deputy Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, stated that Tehran will not accept “theoretical commitments” and requires practical steps to prove diplomatic seriousness.

Iranian demands include economic relief through the release of frozen assets, military security guarantees including the removal of US military presence near the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman, and a clear timeline for implementation. Conversely, the US administration reportedly rejects providing explicit guarantees to lift the blockade solely for the reopening of the Strait, insisting that concessions should stem from Iran due to previous breaches of understanding.