US submits new ceasefire proposal: Iran reviewing terms, discussions underway

May 21, 2026

Tehran: The United States has reportedly submitted a new ceasefire proposal to Iran to end the West Asia conflict permanently, with Pakistan acting as a mediator in the process, according to Al Arabiya, citing diplomatic sources.

Iran Reviewing Proposal as Mediators Push for Breakthrough

Iran is currently reviewing the proposal but has not issued an official response yet. Mediators are working to narrow differences between the US and Iranian positions as indirect negotiations continue.

According to reports, Iran remains engaged in talks but continues to express deep mistrust toward Washington, even as diplomatic channels remain open.

The report also states that Pakistan is playing a key mediating role in facilitating communication between the two sides. Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir’s planned visit to Iran is currently uncertain and is expected to depend on progress in the ceasefire discussions.

Separately, Iranian officials have been engaged in high-level meetings with Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi during his visit to Tehran, aimed at supporting ongoing diplomatic exchanges.

Iran Outlines Key Demands in Negotiations

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran is pursuing talks with “good faith” but remains cautious due to what it calls a history of mistrust with the United States.

Iran’s key demands reportedly include the release of frozen assets, an end to what it describes as “maritime piracy,” and stopping actions targeting Iranian shipping interests.

Officials stressed that while Iran is committed to dialogue, it will continue to prioritize national interests and maintain vigilance throughout the negotiation process.

Region Remains Tense Despite Ongoing Diplomacy

Despite continued diplomatic efforts involving multiple stakeholders, the situation in West Asia remains fragile. Reports suggest that parallel negotiations and mediation efforts are ongoing in an attempt to prevent further escalation and move toward a potential ceasefire agreement.