Iran Formally Sends Counter-Reply to US 15-Point Peace Proposal via Pakistan

Iran formally transmitted its counter-reply to the US 15-point peace proposal via Pakistan as intermediary on approximately March 31. Tehran's counter-conditions included: end to all hostilities, payment of war reparations, international guarantees against future attacks, recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, and cessation of attacks on Hezbollah and Iraqi militias. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman described the US conditions as 'excessive, unrealistic and unreasonable.' Despite the formal counter, the White House press secretary said US-Iran talks were 'going well' and that Iranian officials now at the table were 'more reasonable' than before. Secretary of State Rubio confirmed objectives would be achieved in 'weeks, not months.' Pakistan's PM Sharif expressed confidence in his country's facilitation role, with China also backing the Islamabad initiative.