Iran sets sweeping demands for US base closures and compensation ahead of ceasefire talks

According to a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report citing sources familiar with the matter, Tehran has conveyed “very high” demands as a precondition for opening ceasefire negotiations with the Donald Trump administration. Chief among Iran’s conditions are the closure of all US military bases in Gulf countries and the payment of compensation.

These demands complicate the compromise Washington needs to lift the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and stabilise oil prices.

Tehran seeks control and full exemptions in the Strait of Hormuz

Other demands Iran has placed on the negotiating table are as follows:

A new arrangement allowing Iran to levy fees on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, modelled on Egypt’s system in the Suez Canal.

The complete and unconditional removal of all sanctions on Iran.

Guarantees that hostilities will not resume, and that Israel will halt attacks on Lebanon’s Hezbollah, which is backed by Tehran.

Permission for Iran to retain its nuclear programme, and the abandonment of efforts to restrict it.

A senior US official described these demands as “unrealistic and ridiculous,” warning that such a stance could hinder the prospects of reaching an agreement.

Conflicting claims over dialogue between Washington and Tehran

Iran’s leadership has previously denied that any negotiations with the US are under way. President Donald Trump said two days ago that dialogue between the two countries was continuing and that Iran had agreed to permanently abandon nuclear weapons. Tehran rejected Trump’s statement as “baseless.”

Amid this process, Washington has sent a 15-point peace plan to Tehran via Pakistan. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed readiness to host talks should the sides reach an understanding. Israel’s Channel 12 television reported that the core provisions of the US plan resemble conditions Iran rejected in 2025.

US peace plan calls for full dismantlement of nuclear programme

Under the draft text proposed by Washington, US demands on Iran include:

The dismantlement of nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan and Fordo.

The cessation of uranium enrichment activities and the transfer of all accumulated material to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The termination of the ballistic missile programme.

The end of support for regional proxy forces.

The full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international maritime traffic.

In return, the US proposes lifting nuclear-related sanctions, supporting civilian nuclear energy work in Bushehr, and cancelling the mechanism that allows for the automatic reimposition of UN sanctions.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20% of global oil shipments pass, has remained closed since February 28, when the US and Israel launched military operations against Iran.

Iran, which controls the strait, has announced that the waterway is closed to vessels belonging to the US, Israel and their allies.