Iran links reopening of Strait of Hormuz to guarantees of ending war

Iran is demanding guarantees for a permanent and comprehensive end to the war before it will reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while also reviewing US proposals delivered by Vice President J.D. Vance, according to sources cited by Al Arabiya and Al Hadath on Saturday. The sources indicated there are signs of a positive response within Tehran and an optimistic atmosphere in ongoing communications.

The sources said the US message outlined general principles and guidelines for negotiations, rather than a complete plan. Tehran has reportedly formed committees to discuss the proposals related to its nuclear program, while an Iranian delegation is in Qatar to address issues requiring further clarification.

The ongoing discussions are focused on a series of sequential steps, with no proposal yet reaching a finalized form. Communication with Mohsen Rezaee, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, and mediators is taking place directly, the sources added.

While Iran continues to study the US proposals, it insists on a total cessation of hostilities before entering negotiations. The sources said Tehran is seeking guarantees for a permanent and comprehensive end to the war in exchange for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, alongside efforts to develop a roadmap between Qatar and Iran.

The sources expect a new round of negotiations, but said it is too early to set a date. An American delegation is preparing to visit Doha if an agreement is reached on the roadmap, with the visit contingent on progress in talks with Iran.

In the context of mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran, Pakistan's military has expressed cautious optimism about the chances of progress following two visits by Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, to Tehran this month.

On Friday, Pakistani military spokesperson Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said the armed forces are "cautiously optimistic" about their mediation between Iran and the United States, responding to questions about positive signs after Munir's visits.

Chaudhry, who is Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations, added: "Why would Field Marshal (Munir) visit Tehran twice if there was no degree of positivity? So yes, certainly."

He confirmed that the military's position is described as "cautiously optimistic," noting that "powerful parties are still seeking to disrupt and obstruct" because they believe the conflict serves their interests, without naming any specific party.