A Pakistan-drafted framework proposing an immediate ceasefire between the United States and Iran could take effect as soon as Monday and pave the way for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, sources familiar with the proposals told Reuters. The plan, exchanged overnight with both capitals, uses a two-tier approach: an immediate halt to hostilities followed by negotiations toward a comprehensive settlement.
Under the draft, initially framed as a memorandum of understanding to be finalized electronically through Pakistan — reported as the sole communication channel in the talks — a ceasefire would begin immediately. Parties would then have roughly 15–20 days to conclude a broader agreement. The tentative package, referred to by sources as the “Islamabad Accord,” would establish a regional framework for the strait and culminate in in-person talks in Islamabad.
There was no immediate comment from U.S. or Iranian officials, and Pakistan’s foreign office spokesperson declined to comment. Iranian representatives have told mediators they seek a permanent cessation of hostilities with guarantees against future attacks by the United States and Israel, Reuters reported. Pakistan, along with Turkey and Egypt, has been relaying messages to Tehran.
Sources said Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, was in sustained contact overnight with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. According to those briefed on the talks, a final deal could include Iranian commitments not to pursue nuclear weapons in return for sanctions relief and the release of frozen assets.
Two Pakistani sources told Reuters that, despite intensified civilian and military outreach, Iran had not yet committed to the proposal. Similar temporary ceasefire ideas backed by Pakistan, China and the U.S. have so far drawn no firm Iranian acceptance, and Chinese officials had no immediate response.
The effort comes as a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump approaches. Axios reported that the U.S., Iran and regional mediators have also been discussing terms for a possible 45-day ceasefire that could lead to a permanent end to the conflict.
This report is based on information from international news agencies and the original syndicated feed.
