Iran FM Araghchi: No Response Given to US 15-Point Peace Plan, No Negotiations Underway

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Al Jazeera Qatar on Tuesday, March 31 (11 Farvardin), that Iran has given no response to Trump's 15-point proposal and has made no counter-proposals or conditions. Araghchi said messages being exchanged include "warnings or mutual perspectives" sent through various regional channels. He confirmed receiving messages from Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy, but clarified this does not constitute "negotiations." He emphasized that "no negotiations with any specific party are ongoing" and that "message exchanges are conducted within a formal framework under government and Supreme National Security Council oversight." The New York Times reported on March 25 (4 Farvardin) that the US presented a 15-point plan to end the war. The plan demands closure of the Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan uranium processing facilities; an end to Iran's support for militant groups; and "free maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz." In exchange, all sanctions against Iran would be lifted, and a one-month ceasefire would be established between Iran, the US, and Israel. Iranian media reported after the plan was presented that Tehran countered with five conditions: US troop withdrawal from the region, payment of reparations to Iran, and Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi said "Tehran has not yet decided on the principle of negotiations" and that Iran's conditions for ending the war "are completely clear." He stated Iran "will not accept a ceasefire" and demands a "complete end to the war across the entire region." He added that Iran "is ready for any ground confrontation" and "hopes enemies do not make errors in their calculations." Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi said it is "completely open" and has only been closed to those participating in the war against Iran. He said the strait can be "a corridor for peace" and that decisions about it are up to the coastal countries.