- What are the key demands in Trump's 15-point Iran peace plan?
- The confirmed core demand is that Iran surrender its entire enriched uranium stockpile (estimated at 8,294 kg) to a third-country escrow. Other reported demands include releasing US detainees, recognizing Israel's right to exist, withdrawing IRGC militias from Iraq and Syria, and capping Iran's ballistic missile range at 2,000 km. In return, the US is offering phased sanctions relief and up to $50 billion in economic reconstruction aid.
- Why is Pakistan mediating between the US and Iran?
- Pakistan maintains diplomatic relations with both Washington and Tehran, shares a border with Iran, and has been economically hurt by the energy shock from the Strait of Hormuz disruption. VP Vance personally called PM Sharif to hand-deliver the peace framework, and Sharif subsequently spoke directly with Iranian President Pezeshkian. Islamabad is offering to host direct talks.
- What does Iran partially reopening the Strait of Hormuz mean for oil prices?
- The partial reopening — limited to civilian vessels deemed non-hostile — caused Brent crude to fall from $103.40 to $97.80 per barrel on March 25. Goldman Sachs analysts project a $0.40–$0.60 per gallon decline in US gasoline prices within 3–4 weeks if diplomatic progress holds. Roughly 20% of global oil supply transits the strait.
- What happens if the five-day ceasefire window expires without a deal?
- The Trump administration's five-day diplomatic pause expires Saturday, March 28. Defense Secretary Hegseth has maintained strike packages on 24-hour readiness targeting Iranian power grid infrastructure. If Iran does not show meaningful movement on the uranium demand before the deadline, planned airstrikes could resume. Two US carrier strike groups remain positioned in the Gulf of Oman and the Red Sea.
- How is Iran responding to the peace plan?
- Iran has not rejected the plan outright. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei said Iran 'takes note of the proposals' but insists any talks must respect Iranian sovereignty and involve a complete lifting of all sanctions. Iran has partially reopened the Strait of Hormuz to civilian tankers as a signal of good faith, but has not pre-committed to the core uranium surrender demand before negotiations begin.
