Iran has reportedly demanded the closure of all United States military bases in the Gulf as a precondition for re-entering ceasefire negotiations, setting a formidable hurdle for diplomatic engagement with Washington. The development was first reported by The Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the ongoing discussions.
According to the report, Tehran’s negotiating stance is increasingly being shaped by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which has consolidated significant influence within Iran’s power structure following weeks of heightened conflict.
In addition to seeking a complete withdrawal of US military presence from the Gulf region, Iran has also called for financial reparations for damages resulting from US and Israeli strikes—demands that American officials have described as “unrealistic” and reflective of a maximalist approach.
Expanded Set of Strategic Demands
Iran’s conditions extend well beyond military considerations, encompassing broader strategic and economic measures tied to regional security and global energy routes. Key demands reportedly include:
- Closure of all US military bases in the Gulf
- Financial compensation for wartime damages
- A revised governance framework for the Strait of Hormuz, enabling Iran to levy transit fees similar to Egypt’s Suez Canal model
- Binding guarantees to prevent future hostilities
- A cessation of Israeli strikes targeting Iran-aligned groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon
- Complete removal of international sanctions on Iran
- Unrestricted continuation of Iran’s missile programme without external limitations
US officials have reportedly dismissed these demands as “ridiculous and unrealistic,” underscoring the deep divide between the two sides. Diplomatic engagement continues indirectly through regional intermediaries, with no direct talks currently underway.
Trump Signals Openness to Negotiations
Despite the hardline positions, US President Donald Trump has expressed cautious optimism about the prospects for renewed dialogue, confirming that communication channels with Tehran remain active.
Trump indicated that Washington had received what he described as a “significant gesture” concerning the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime corridor through which nearly one-fifth of global oil supply passes. Iran has since signalled that it would permit safe passage for “non-hostile vessels,” according to a communication relayed via the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
This development contributed to a nearly six percent drop in benchmark oil prices, reflecting market hopes for de-escalation amid persistent geopolitical volatility.
The US administration has reportedly transmitted a peace proposal to Tehran, with discussions involving senior leadership, including Vice President JD Vance. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Prime Minister has offered to facilitate talks, with the proposal reportedly conveyed through diplomatic intermediaries.
Trump reiterated Washington’s core position, stating that any agreement must begin with a firm commitment from Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons.
US Outlines Comprehensive 15-Point Framework
The United States has proposed an extensive 15-point framework aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear ambitions and limiting its regional influence. Key provisions include:
- Complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear programme
- A binding commitment to abstain from developing nuclear weapons
- Prohibition of uranium enrichment within Iran
- Transfer of approximately 450 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
- Decommissioning of key nuclear facilities at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow
- Full and unrestricted inspection authority for the IAEA
- Termination of Iran’s regional proxy networks
- Cessation of funding and arming allied militant groups
- Ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains an open international waterway
- Imposition of limits on Iran’s missile capabilities, including range and stockpile
The proposal also includes provisions for a temporary ceasefire to create space for structured negotiations.
Conflict Persists Amid Fragile Diplomacy
Despite emerging diplomatic signals, hostilities continue across multiple fronts. Iranian missile strikes have reportedly caused casualties in Israel, while Israel has launched a “large wave” of airstrikes within Iran and expanded operations against Hezbollah positions in Lebanon.
In parallel, the United States is preparing to deploy approximately 3,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, indicating sustained military readiness alongside diplomatic outreach.
Israel has maintained that its strategic objectives remain unchanged, even as international efforts to broker peace intensify. The conflict has increasingly taken on a regional dimension, with spillover effects impacting Lebanon and Gulf states.
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