US Offers Iran Relief From Blockade in High-Stakes Proposal Delivered Through Asim Munir

The United States has presented Iran with a diplomatic proposal that would offer relief from maritime blockades and economic sanctions in return for Tehran restoring freedom of navigation through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and ending attacks by Iran-aligned groups across the region, according to Al Arabiya English.

The proposal was reportedly conveyed to Iranian officials by Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir during a high-level visit to Tehran. His trip followed a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump last week, during which the two discussed the escalating Iran crisis before Munir travelled to the Iranian capital. During the visit, Munir held what were described as “clear and decisive” talks with Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and a representative of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Munir called for an immediate halt to operations by Iranian-backed groups operating across the region. He also urged Tehran to return to commitments outlined in a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reportedly agreed with Washington in June. The US offer reportedly links the removal of maritime restrictions and economic sanctions to two key conditions: Iran guaranteeing safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and using its influence to stop attacks by allied militant groups.

Iran, however, pushed back against Washington’s demands and called for concrete steps from the United States first. Rezaei stressed that Tehran considers the security of the Strait of Hormuz a matter under its control and argued that Washington must change its approach and take practical measures to honour the existing understanding.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also accused the United States of repeatedly violating previous commitments. He said what Tehran views as Washington’s failure to honour its obligations has deepened mistrust and made regional stability more difficult. President Masoud Pezeshkian similarly cautioned that American pressure and what he described as “bullying” could further complicate diplomatic efforts. At the same time, he said Iran remained open to peaceful economic, political and security cooperation with neighbouring Muslim countries.

The diplomatic initiative comes as the Trump administration continues to weigh further economic pressure on Tehran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said Washington is pursuing “quiet diplomacy” with countries that continue to maintain economic relations with Iran, while preparing additional sanctions targeting areas such as digital assets, technology and shipping. Although Washington is considering deadlines for third countries to reduce or end economic ties with Iran, the administration has not yet imposed major new penalties, apparently leaving room for ongoing diplomatic negotiations.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ISPR.