WSJ: Iran signals readiness for talks in Pakistan as US weighs diplomatic options

Iran has told mediators it is prepared to participate in negotiations in Pakistan early next week, provided Washington shows willingness to consider Tehran’s latest proposal for resolving the conflict, The Wall Street Journal reports, citing informed sources.

The report says Iran’s proposal includes a willingness to discuss conditions related to the opening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. In return, Tehran is seeking U.S. guarantees to halt attacks and lift what it describes as a blockade on its ports. Iranian officials have also indicated openness to addressing concerns over the country’s nuclear program in exchange for a potential easing of U.S. sanctions.

The diplomatic overture comes amid signals from Washington that it is weighing its next steps. The U.S. president recently stated that the country faces a choice between pursuing a comprehensive resolution with Iran or negotiating a new agreement.

On May 1, the White House formally notified Congress that the conflict with Iran is considered concluded. The move aligns with U.S. legal requirements governing the deployment of military forces abroad.

Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, the executive branch may deploy armed forces for more than 60 days only with congressional authorisation. May 1 marked the 60th day of U.S. involvement in the conflict, and no request for an extension had been submitted to Congress. The U.S. Constitution assigns the authority to declare war to Congress, not the president.

By Sabina Mammadli