WASHINGTON — The United States and Iran have exchanged new proposals aimed at ending their ongoing conflict, with both sides reviewing documents that could lead to a one-page memorandum of understanding, officials and sources said on Wednesday.
Iran said it was reviewing a fresh U.S. proposal delivered through Pakistani mediators, according to Iranian state-linked media and officials. The latest exchanges follow Iran’s submission of a 14-point proposal in response to an earlier U.S. plan, sources familiar with the talks told multiple news organizations.
Details of the proposals remain unclear. Reports indicate the emerging one-page memorandum would formally declare an end to the war and establish a framework for subsequent negotiations on key issues, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz to shipping, lifting U.S. sanctions and releasing frozen Iranian assets, and addressing Iran’s nuclear program.
President Donald Trump told PBS NewsHour on Wednesday that there was “a very good chance” the two sides were nearing a deal. He has previously expressed skepticism about Iranian offers while stating he was reviewing the latest one.
Iranian officials have indicated they are evaluating the U.S. response and expect to reply soon, potentially within days. A senior Iranian official, cited in regional reports, described the approach as prioritizing an end to hostilities and maritime issues before deeper nuclear talks.
The exchanges come amid a fragile ceasefire that has held for several weeks following the outbreak of direct conflict earlier in 2026. The fighting, which involved U.S. and Israeli actions against Iranian targets, severely disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint for global oil transit — and triggered U.S. naval operations in the area.
Pakistani mediators have played a central role in facilitating communications between Washington and Tehran. Earlier rounds included a U.S. nine-point or 15-point framework and Iranian counterproposals, according to semiofficial Iranian outlets and U.S. reporting.
“The deal on the table would be a negotiated memorandum of understanding that would limit Iran’s nuclear program and open the Strait of Hormuz,” PBS correspondent Nick Schifrin reported, citing the latest developments.
U.S. officials have emphasized certain red lines, including constraints on Iran’s nuclear activities, while Iranian statements have stressed the need for guarantees against future attacks, withdrawal of forces from the region, and sanctions relief. Both sides have described the talks as complex, with significant mistrust persisting.
As of Wednesday, no final agreement had been reached. Sources briefed on the discussions said Iranian responses to the latest U.S. ideas were anticipated shortly. The White House has not released the full text of its proposal, and Iranian state media has offered limited details on the contents under review.
Negotiations continue through back channels, with the current ceasefire appearing to hold despite ongoing regional tensions.
