Iran wants to end its prolonged state of “no war, no peace” with the United States. But reaching an agreement that prevents renewed military confrontation while easing economic pressure remains a difficult diplomatic challenge.
Tehran Demands an End to the Standoff
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei had directed officials to end the uncertain situation, stressing that Tehran was prepared to negotiate on equal terms but would not submit to pressure.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that a previously presented two-day proposal remained on the table, suggesting that Washington’s acceptance of Iranian demands could help restore security to the Strait of Hormuz.
Tehran is demanding an end to hostilities, the lifting of the blockade and the removal of sanctions, alongside assurances against renewed American military attacks.
US President Donald Trump, following talks with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, spoke of positive momentum towards ending the confrontation, while confirming that the blockade remained in place.
A Comprehensive Deal or Temporary Arrangement?
Political analyst Reza Ghabishawi told Al Jazeera Net that Tehran wants an agreement ending the war with Washington, halting fighting on other fronts including Lebanon and Yemen, and preventing future US attacks.
Iran also seeks safeguards making American withdrawal from any agreement difficult, while allowing Tehran to restore its previous position quickly if Washington withdraws.
Ghabishawi cited the Islamabad memorandum, which halted military operations in June before Trump declared it over in July, as evidence of the risks surrounding temporary arrangements.
Iran’s Priorities
Ending the war and naval blockade, securing guarantees against new attacks, lifting oil sanctions and easing restrictions on trade, aviation and economic relations.
Washington’s Priorities
Reopening the Strait of Hormuz and determining the future of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile, according to Ghabishawi’s assessment.
However, domestic political pressures, extensive disagreements and Washington’s commitments to Israel could make a comprehensive settlement difficult. Both sides may instead accept a limited agreement that postpones more contentious issues.
Where Could Iran Compromise?
Ghabishawi believes Tehran may negotiate the practical management of the Strait of Hormuz, while insisting on retaining a meaningful role rather than returning to pre-war arrangements.
On the nuclear issue, Iran could potentially reduce enrichment levels or dilute highly enriched uranium domestically, while rejecting the transfer of its stockpile abroad. Foreign participation in nuclear activities inside Iran could also be considered.
Political analyst Mohsen Avazvardi argues that Tehran is defending what it considers its existing rights, rather than seeking additional demands. He notes that Iran has not withdrawn from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, although its calculations could change if a third round of fighting erupts. Israel could then become part of additional Iranian demands.
The Economic Cost of Uncertainty
Ghabishawi warns that remaining in a state of neither war nor peace could inflict damage exceeding that of open warfare, as uncertainty disrupts tourism, travel, investment decisions and construction projects.
Avazvardi identifies difficulties selling oil and the naval blockade as major economic pressures. He also argues that intermittent American attacks in southern Iran complicate the restoration of its deterrent capabilities.
“A temporary political agreement, if it cannot achieve economic stability, will not guarantee Iran’s security and military deterrence.”Mohsen Avazvardi | Al Jazeera Net
Avazvardi considers a broader deal more effective, although ending the war and releasing frozen Iranian funds could provide an initial breakthrough. He nevertheless believes economic pressure is unlikely to force Tehran into concessions, with Iranian officials continuing to regard their current conditions as the minimum of their legal rights.
