Iran Proposes Phased Peace Plan Amid Strategic Russian Support

Following a conflict initiated by U.S. and Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026, Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Minister, conducted a regional diplomatic tour through Pakistan, Oman, and Russia to secure security guarantees and end hostilities. Through Pakistani mediators, Iran proposed a new three-stage negotiation framework that prioritizes a UN-guaranteed end to the war and the management of the Strait of Hormuz before addressing the nuclear dossier. This plan contradicts the position of U.S. President Donald Trump, who maintains that a nuclear deal is the primary requirement for peace.

During his tour, Araghchi met with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq in Muscat to discuss maritime security and visited Islamabad multiple times to coordinate with Pakistani leadership. In St. Petersburg, he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who reaffirmed a strategic partnership and offered Russian mediation to establish regional peace. Putin also praised the Iranian people's fight for sovereignty and acknowledged a message from Iran's Supreme Leader.

Diplomatic efforts have been volatile. While Donald Trump extended an indefinite ceasefire and considered an Iranian proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, he canceled planned visits by U.S. envoys to Islamabad, stating there was no point in talking. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reinforced that Iran would not negotiate under pressure or siege. Meanwhile, Iran continues to assert territorial authority over the Strait of Hormuz, which it closed on April 18 following a U.S. naval blockade.