WASHINGTON/TEL AVIV, March 25 – Tensions across the Gulf remain dangerously high as diplomatic signals begin to surface behind the scenes. A senior Iranian official has indicated that Pakistan has delivered a proposal from the United States to Tehran, opening a possible path toward negotiations. According to the official, both Pakistan and Turkey are being considered as venues for potential talks aimed at easing the ongoing war in Gulf, even as public rhetoric from Iran continues to reject any engagement with Washington.
The development comes amid nearly a month of escalating violence involving Iran, Israel, and U.S. interests in the region. While markets have responded cautiously to the possibility of diplomacy, the situation on the ground remains volatile, with continued strikes and military preparations suggesting that a resolution is far from certain.
Pakistan passes U.S. proposal as Ankara, Islamabad emerge as possible venues
Behind closed doors, there are growing indications that indirect communication channels are active. The Iranian official revealed that Islamabad has passed along a U.S. proposal, although specific details were not disclosed. The proposal is believed to be linked to a broader 15-point U.S framework previously discussed in international media, which reportedly includes measures related to Iran’s nuclear program and regional activities.
Pakistan has already expressed willingness to host high level discussions, potentially as early as this week. Meanwhile, Turkey is also playing a quiet but active role. A senior figure from Turkey’s ruling party, Harun Armagan, confirmed that Ankara has been facilitating message exchanges between Tehran and Washington.
Despite these developments, Iran’s public stance remains firmly opposed to negotiations. Officials have repeatedly denied that any talks are underway. Speaking on state television, military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari dismissed the idea of engagement with the U.S., directly criticizing Trump in sharp terms. He emphasized that Iran would not reach any agreement under current conditions.
Similarly, foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Beghaei stated during an appearance on international television that previous diplomatic efforts were undermined by recent military actions. He described the situation as a breakdown of trust, arguing that renewed dialogue would be meaningless while hostilities continue.
U.S. terms, Israeli concerns and troop deployments shape next phase
Sources familiar with the proposal suggest that it includes significant demands. These reportedly involve the removal of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles, a halt to enrichment activities, restrictions on ballistic missile development, and an end to support for allied groups in the region.
Israeli officials have been briefed on the proposal. According to individuals close to the government of Benjamin Netanyahu, there is skepticism about whether Iran would accept such terms. Concerns have also been raised that negotiations could lead to compromises that might limit Israel’s ability to act independently against perceived threats.
At the same time, the United States is increasing its military presence in the Gulf. Defense officials have confirmed plans to deploy thousands of airborne troops, adding to Marine units already en route. The arrival of a Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard an amphibious assault ship is expected by the end of the month, signaling preparedness for a possible escalation.
This military buildup reflects a dual track approach by Washington, combining diplomatic outreach with strategic positioning. While the U.S. administration has recently adopted a softer tone, the reinforcement of troops indicates that all options remain on the table.
Fresh strikes hit Tehran as Iran targets Israel, U.S. bases across region
Despite diplomatic efforts, hostilities continue across multiple fronts. Israeli forces have carried out fresh airstrikes targeting Iranian infrastructure, including facilities linked to naval construction. Reports from semi-official Iranian SNN News Agency indicate that residential areas in Tehran have also been hit, with emergency teams working through debris in search of survivors.
Iran has responded with a new wave of drone and missile attacks. Targets have included locations in Israel such as Tel Aviv and Kiryat Shmona, as well as U.S. bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain. Regional governments have reported intercepting several incoming drones, with limited damage but rising concern over the frequency of attacks.
Kuwait confirmed that a drone strike caused a fire at a fuel tank near its international airport, though no casualties were reported. Saudi Arabia also announced that it had successfully intercepted aerial threats.
Since the launch of “Operation Epic Fury” by the U.S. in February 28, Iran has expanded its strategy to include pressure on countries hosting American bases. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies, has effectively been restricted. While Iran has stated that non hostile vessels may pass with coordination, in practice, access has been limited.
Markets have reacted to the possibility of negotiations with cautious optimism. Oil prices have eased slightly, and global equities have shown signs of recovery after recent volatility. Analysts attribute this to hopes that diplomatic channels could eventually lead to a ceasefire.
However, the gap between public statements and behind the scenes activity highlights the complexity of the situation. While messages are being exchanged and potential venues discussed, the continued intensity of military operations suggests that any breakthrough remains uncertain.