Iranian officials confirmed that Tehran is currently reviewing peace proposals received from the United States via Pakistani mediators, though no official conclusion or reply has been issued. This development follows reports suggesting the U.S. and Iran were close to a 14-point memorandum aimed at ending hostilities and advancing nuclear talks.
Diplomatic Developments and US Stance
According to state media reports, comments attributed to the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Esmaeil Baqaei, indicated that Iran is in the review phase. This statement emerged shortly after multiple outlets reported that a comprehensive agreement was nearing between the two nations.
President Donald Trump addressed the situation, stating that the Iranians are eager to reach an agreement and that the outcome will depend on whether the deal meets U.S. satisfaction levels.
Predictions of Conflict Resolution
Trump also offered optimistic projections regarding the conflict's timeline. At a separate event, he predicted that the war "will be over quickly."
Market Reactions and Regional Tensions
Initial signals of a potential ceasefire caused fluctuations in global markets. However, the uncertainty surrounding key maritime routes kept markets volatile:
- Oil Prices: Prices experienced initial dips but resumed rising as developments remained unclear.
- Equities: Stock markets saw mixed performance, falling into the red on Thursday afternoon.
Strait of Hormuz and Project Freedom Suspension
A major point of ambiguity remains the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipping that has been disrupted by the conflict.
- Project Freedom: The U.S. initiated "Project Freedom" on Monday to assist commercial vessels trapped in the Persian Gulf despite Iranian threats.
- Abrupt Pause: Trump abruptly halted this operation the following day, citing perceived progress in negotiations with Iran.
- Saudi Displeasure: NBC News reported that this reversal occurred after Saudi Arabia, a vital regional partner, expressed displeasure with the operation and subsequently moved to suspend the U.S. military's use of its bases and airspace.
