Qatar, Egypt and Pakistan propose 10-day truce between Iran and US

By bnm Gulf bureau

A group of regional mediators, including Qatar, Egypt and Pakistan, has proposed a ten-day halt to hostilities between Iran and the United States, Iranian media reported on July 21.

The proposal, already conveyed to both sides, covers not only a pause in fighting but also full restoration of shipping freedom through the Strait of Hormuz, according to informed sources cited by the outlet.

The move could also create conditions for a return to the earlier bilateral memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington.

The Trump administration is reviewing the plan, and has separately urged Israel to refrain from any action that could derail the diplomatic push, the report said.

Neither Iran nor the United States has yet given final agreement to the proposed terms.

Iran said earlier on July 21 Strait of Hormuz will remain closed as long as the US continues its hostile actions, a military source told the Fars news agency.

'The Iranian armed forces exercise complete control over the Strait of Hormuz. Decisions to open it or continue to restrict it will be made solely based on security and national interests. As long as threats and hostile actions from the United States persist, there will be no change in this matter,' the publication states.

According to the agency's source, responsibility for potential disruptions to shipping and their consequences lies with those parties that undermine regional security through their military actions and political escalation.

Analysts see two likely scenarios going forward, the outlet said: either the parties reach a short-term truce, or Washington, in coordination with Israel, launches a full-scale military operation aimed at forcing Iran's leadership to capitulate.

The Pentagon has moved significant forces into the region in recent days, including dozens of fighter jets and refuelling tankers, building capacity for a serious escalation should talks fail.

Israel's military has been placed on heightened readiness and is prepared for a possible widening of the conflict, the report added.