The U.S. reportedly presented Iran with a 15-point plan for ending Middle East conflict, prompting Tehran to question Washington’s internal coherence.
U.S. Plan and Iranian Response
The “New York Times” reported on Tuesday, March 24th, that the U.S. transmitted a 15-point plan to Iran aimed at resolving the conflict in the Middle East, according to two informed officials. This suggests a shift towards diplomacy by Donald Trump amid the economic repercussions of the ongoing conflict.
Iran’s armed forces spokesperson, Colonel Ebrahim Zolfaghari, responded with skepticism, questioning whether internal U.S. conflicts have reached a point where negotiations are occurring within the U.S. government itself.
Trump Criticized in Iran
Zolfaghari asserted that the U.S. is incapable of conducting meaningful negotiations, characterizing American strategic power as a “strategic failure.” He suggested that a true superpower would have resolved the situation long ago.
He also accused President Trump of manipulating the narrative, stating, “Do not present your failure as an agreement. Your era of empty promises is over.”
Potential Negotiations in Islamabad
A Pakistani official and a second source informed Reuters that negotiations to end the Middle East war could take place this week in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated on X that Pakistan welcomes and fully supports efforts for dialogue to end the conflict, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the region. Pakistan is prepared to host and facilitate “constructive and decisive talks” with the consent of the U.S. and Iran.
Iran Fears Deception
According to Axios, Iranian officials have informed countries attempting to mediate peace talks with the U.S. that they have been deceived by Trump twice before and are wary of being misled again.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s parliamentary speaker, demanded the “complete punishment of aggressors” and affirmed the commitment of Iranian officials to their supreme leader and the nation until this goal is achieved.
Ghalibaf also dismissed Trump’s claims of prior negotiations, alleging that “fake news” is being used to manipulate financial markets and oil prices, and to deflect from the challenges faced by the U.S. and Israel.