The United States is advancing a detailed peace framework aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with Iran, even as military operations continue and diplomatic channels remain uncertain.
Donald Trump said he would avoid using the word “war” to describe the situation, instead calling it a “military operation.” His comments reflect ongoing debate in Washington, where the Constitution grants Congress—not the president—the authority to formally declare war.
That debate has already played out on Capitol Hill. A war powers resolution aimed at limiting military action failed in the Senate, despite support from lawmakers like Rand Paul, who argued that Congress should not relinquish its constitutional role.
The 15-Point Proposal
According to reports, the U.S. has sent a 15-point proposal to Iran through Pakistan, which has offered to help facilitate talks. Key elements of the proposal reportedly include:
- Eliminating Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium
- Halting uranium enrichment activities
- Ending Iran’s ballistic missile program
- Cutting funding to regional allied groups
Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araqchi, confirmed that Tehran is reviewing the proposal but emphasized that message exchanges do not amount to formal negotiations.
At the same time, signals from Iran have been mixed—suggesting possible openness to a deal if conditions are met, while publicly maintaining distance from direct talks.
Military Pressure Continues
On the ground, the conflict remains active. U.S. Central Command reports that strikes have damaged or destroyed more than two-thirds of Iran’s missile, drone, and naval production infrastructure.
These strikes, supported by U.S. and Israeli operations, have targeted key facilities such as shipyards and weapons production sites. Iran has not publicly confirmed the extent of the damage.
A Narrowing Window
The situation now sits at a crossroads:
- Diplomacy is being tested through indirect channels
- Military pressure is intensifying
- Political divisions in the U.S. remain unresolved
Whether the proposal leads to a breakthrough or further escalation will depend on how both sides respond in the coming days.
For now, the strategy appears clear: apply pressure while leaving the door open—just enough—for a potential deal.
