JP: Iran takes first step, proposes 10-day ceasefire with US

Tehran has proposed a 10-day ceasefire between Iran and the United States through mediators.

The Iranian initiative reflects Tehran’s desire to avoid a renewed full-scale military confrontation with Washington, The Jerusalem Post reports.

The proposed truce is intended, in part, to resolve issues surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, according to two sources familiar with the negotiations cited by the newspaper. Among the options being discussed by mediators is the creation of a “middle corridor” in the strait that would allow commercial vessels to transit the waterway safely.

The United States, however, is reportedly seeking a longer ceasefire and is demanding a partial agreement on freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz before any truce takes effect.

Media reports previously indicated that mediators had proposed a 10-day ceasefire aimed at restoring a temporary agreement between Iran and the United States.

Some officials in the Trump administration have reportedly characterised the Iranian proposal as "absurd" and "illogical," according to one source.

A US official told The Jerusalem Post that President Donald Trump remains focused on ensuring Tehran faces consequences for what Washington views as violations of the memorandum of understanding, as well as for the deaths of American service members.

“The president will also ensure that Iran pays for the recent deaths of US soldiers. These devastating blows will continue until the president decides otherwise, but talks between our countries are continuing,” the source noted.

By Jeyhun Aghazada