Iran Proposes Phased Roadmap for Talks With US

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Iran has put forward a three-stage framework for negotiations with the United States, outlining a sequenced approach that links regional security, strategic waterways, and nuclear issues.

According to the proposal, the first phase calls for a permanent cessation of hostilities involving Iran and Lebanon, along with firm and verifiable guarantees to prevent future attacks on both countries. Tehran argues that without stabilising the regional security environment, further progress on broader issues would remain difficult.

The second phase focuses on the governance and security of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global energy shipments. Iran has suggested structured discussions to ensure the uninterrupted flow of maritime traffic while addressing security concerns in and around the waterway.

Only after tangible progress in these two areas would Iran move to the third phase, which involves negotiations over its nuclear programme. This staged approach signals Tehran’s position that nuclear talks cannot be isolated from wider geopolitical and security dynamics.

The United States has consistently pushed for strict limits on Iran’s uranium enrichment activities and has called for the removal or reduction of enriched stockpiles. Responding to the proposal, a White House spokesperson described the issues as highly sensitive and said Washington would not conduct negotiations through public channels. The spokesperson also reiterated that any future agreement must safeguard US national interests and prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

The proposal comes after the latest round of indirect talks between the two sides concluded without a breakthrough, highlighting the continued gap between their positions despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.