"Islamabad Accord" US, Iran Weigh Ceasefire Plan by Pakistan

A Pakistan-mediated framework to halt the U.S.-Iran war has emerged as a time-sensitive diplomatic push, linking an immediate ceasefire to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a phased path toward a broader settlement.

The proposal, shared overnight and discussed on Monday, outlines a two-tier structure: an immediate ceasefire potentially taking effect on Monday, followed by a comprehensive agreement within 15–20 days.

The initial phase would be formalized through a memorandum of understanding finalized electronically, with Pakistan acting as the sole communication channel. “All elements need to be agreed today,” a source said, underscoring the compressed timeline.

A separate Axios report cited discussions of a 45-day ceasefire window as part of a broader phased deal.

Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has been in continuous contact “all night long” with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, envoy Steve Witkoff, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, according to the source.

Mediators including Pakistan, Türkiye, and Egypt have transmitted proposals to Tehran, while China is also referenced as backing elements of the ceasefire push.

An Iranian official has told Reuters that Tehran has received Pakistan’s proposal and is reviewing it, but will not accept deadlines or decisions made under pressure.

The official added that Iran will not agree to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for a temporary ceasefire.

A central component of the proposal is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil supplies. The conflict has heightened volatility in energy markets, with traders closely tracking any disruption to flows.

The deal, tentatively called the “Islamabad Accord,” would include a regional framework governing the strait, with final in-person talks planned in Islamabad.

The expected final agreement would include Iranian commitments not to pursue nuclear weapons in exchange for sanctions relief and the release of frozen assets.

Iranian officials have previously sought guarantees against future attacks by the U.S. and Israel.

U.S. President Donald Trump has pressed for a rapid ceasefire, warning of consequences if no agreement is reached within a short timeframe.

The outcome now hinges on whether Tehran formally engages, as diplomatic channels narrow and market pressures intensify.