Iran responds to new US proposal via Pakistan mediation

On May 18, 2026, the Iranian Foreign Ministry announced that Tehran has formally replied to a new United States proposal aimed at resolving the ongoing diplomatic impasse and regional conflict. The response, described as a conveyance of Iranian concerns, was transmitted overnight via Pakistan, which continues to act as a mediator. This development follows a two-day visit to Tehran by Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who met with his Iranian counterpart Eskandar Momeni to facilitate peace talks. Despite an April 8 ceasefire that largely halted hostilities following the February 28 strikes, significant tensions remain. Iran maintains a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, while the United States continues a naval blockade of Iranian ports. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran has received signals of US willingness to negotiate, although Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned of potential failure if the proposal is rejected. Meanwhile, the USS Gerald R. Ford returned to its home base after a 326-day mission.