Tipu Usman seeks closer media engagement to strengthen Pakistan’s UK diaspora outreach

TEHRAN: The United States has reportedly conveyed a proposal to Iran under which Washington would ease its economic pressure and blockade measures in exchange for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to attacks by Iran-linked groups. According to a report by Al Arabiya English, the proposal was conveyed to Iranian officials during Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s recent visit to Tehran. The report attributed the details to a senior source and said the message was delivered as Pakistan continued its diplomatic efforts to help end the conflict. The source said Munir held a meeting with Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and a representative of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The meeting was described as “clear and decisive”. During the discussions, Munir reportedly called on Iran to stop attacks carried out by groups linked to Tehran. The Pakistani military chief also conveyed the US position on the need to restore conditions that could allow broader diplomatic engagement. According to the report, Munir also urged Tehran to resume implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding reached between Iran and the United States in June. He reportedly told the Iranian side that both Washington and Tehran had played a role in disrupting the implementation of the understandings reached under the agreement. The reported US proposal comes as the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the confrontation. The strategically important waterway is a major route for global energy shipments, and disruptions to maritime traffic have already contributed to higher oil prices and increased concerns about energy supplies. Washington’s reported offer links the reopening of the waterway with broader steps aimed at reducing military escalation. The proposal would also involve easing the economic restrictions and blockade measures imposed on Iran. Iran has repeatedly rejected demands that it reopen the strait without corresponding commitments from the United States. Tehran has maintained that sanctions and restrictions must be addressed as part of any sustainable settlement. The June understanding also became a key element in subsequent diplomatic efforts. However, disagreements over its implementation reportedly prevented the arrangement from developing into a lasting agreement. Iranian officials have accused Washington of failing to fulfil its commitments, while the United States has continued to pressure Tehran over regional security and maritime access. Munir’s visit to Tehran therefore comes against the backdrop of a difficult diplomatic environment. Pakistan has sought to use its relations with both Iran and the United States to encourage dialogue and push for a peaceful resolution to the wider regional crisis. The reported meeting with Rezaei could be significant because of his position within Iran’s national security structure and his links to the country’s senior leadership. The discussions also highlight Pakistan’s growing diplomatic role in attempts to reduce tensions between Washington and Tehran. Islamabad has consistently called for a peaceful, sustainable and comprehensive settlement rather than prolonged military confrontation. The reported US offer has not, however, been publicly confirmed in full by Washington or Tehran. The details were attributed to a senior source by Al Arabiya English, and the next steps will depend on whether the two sides can agree on reciprocal measures. With the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions and attacks by Iran-linked groups remaining major points of contention, the reported proposal could provide a framework for renewed negotiations if both sides are prepared to make reciprocal concessions.