- What is the US 15-point framework for Iran?
- The US framework demands complete dismantlement of Iran's nuclear enrichment program, an end to IRGC proxy militia support in the region, unconditional reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a cap on Iran's ballistic missile range at under 300km, and commitment to direct security negotiations — in exchange for phased sanctions relief and a 10-year non-aggression guarantee.
- Why is Pakistan mediating between the US and Iran?
- Pakistan maintains functional diplomatic relations with both Washington and Tehran and is acting as a relay, passing messages verbatim between the two parties. Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif has strong incentive to facilitate peace given Pakistan's own economic vulnerability to disrupted Gulf oil exports from the Hormuz closure.
- What does Iran want in the peace talks?
- Iran's five public conditions include: full sovereignty recognition over the Strait of Hormuz, a binding non-aggression treaty (not a presidential guarantee), a complete halt to US-Israeli strikes as a precondition for any talks, immediate unfreezing of all Iranian assets, and preservation of a civilian nuclear program including 3.67% enrichment under the original JCPOA cap.
- What happens if Iran misses the April 6 Hormuz deadline?
- The White House has declined to specify exact consequences, saying only it is "evaluating options." US and Israeli forces have already significantly degraded Iran's air defense networks, lowering the cost of further strikes. Analysts expect continued or intensified military pressure if diplomatic talks do not make concrete progress before April 6.
- Why can't Russia and China be part of a new Iran nuclear deal?
- Russia and China challenged the legal basis for UN snapback sanctions at the Security Council, and would likely veto any UN-monitored agreement. This limits any near-term deal to a bilateral US-Iran structure, which lacks the multilateral verification infrastructure the US considers essential for a durable agreement.
