Former Iranian diplomat outlines ceasefire terms with US, Israel

Former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has proposed a framework for ending the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, arguing that Tehran should leverage what he describes as a position of strength to secure a lasting peace.

Writing for Foreign Affairs, Zarif asserted that “Iran did not start its war with the United States and Israel,” adding that “more than a month in, the Islamic Republic is clearly winning it.” He claimed that despite sustained US and Israeli bombardment targeting military, industrial, and civilian infrastructure, Iran has “held the line,” maintained leadership continuity, and “repeatedly hit back at its aggressors.”

Zarif acknowledged growing domestic calls to prolong the conflict, noting that crowds have chanted, “No capitulation, no compromise, fight with America.” However, he warned that continued fighting would result only in further destruction and risk expanding the war into a broader international crisis.

Instead, he urged Tehran to “declare victory and make a deal,” proposing that Iran offer to limit its nuclear program and reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the lifting of all sanctions. “Previously, Washington wouldn’t take [such a deal], but might accept now,” he wrote.

Zarif also suggested a broader diplomatic reset, including a mutual nonaggression pact, economic cooperation, and the restoration of diplomatic and consular ties. He argued that these steps would allow Iranian authorities to shift focus toward domestic development.

The proposal comes amid uncertainty over the response from US President Donald Trump, whom Zarif criticized for “contradictory and confusing statements.” He cited Trump’s remarks threatening to bomb Iran “back to the stone ages” even as Washington signaled openness to negotiations.

Zarif also pointed to longstanding grievances in US-Iran relations, referencing past tensions under Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden. He argued that repeated breakdowns in diplomacy have fueled deep mistrust among Iranians.

While acknowledging skepticism toward negotiations, Zarif emphasized that a comprehensive agreement—rather than a temporary ceasefire—would be more durable. Such a deal, he said, could include limits on uranium enrichment, sanctions relief, and international cooperation involving countries such as China and Russia.

“This agreement will not be easy to make,” Zarif cautioned, but added that the conflict has created an opportunity for a lasting settlement. “History best remembers those who make peace,” he concluded.

The United States and Iran have had no formal diplomatic relations since 1980, when President Jimmy Carter severed ties following the hostage crisis.

By Vafa Guliyeva