US and Iran discuss possible 45 day ceasefire, Axios reports
US President Donald Trump (photo: Getty Images)
The United States, Iran, and mediators are holding talks on a possible 45-day ceasefire that could become a step toward ending the war. However, chances of reaching a deal within the next 48 hours are low, Axios reports.
"But this last-ditch effort is the only chance to prevent a dramatic escalation in the war that will include massive strikes on Iranian civilian infrastructure and a retaliation against energy and water facilities in the Gulf states," the outlet writes.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump set a 10-day deadline to reach a deal with Iran, which was due to expire on Monday, but was later extended by another day.
According to sources, the United States has already prepared a plan for a large-scale US-Israeli campaign of strikes on Iran's energy facilities. Extending the negotiations is meant to give a last chance for a diplomatic settlement.
Talks are being conducted through mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, and Türkiye, as well as through direct contacts between US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Two-stage plan
According to sources, a two-stage deal is being discussed. The first stage envisions a 45-day ceasefire, during which the sides are expected to agree on end of the war. If needed, this period may be extended.
The second stage is meant to secure the full end of the war.
Key disagreements
Despite talks, Iran is not showing willingness to concede key positions. This concerns, in particular, control over the Strait of Hormuz and the issue of highly enriched uranium.
Mediators emphasize that these factors remain the main leverage of Tehran, and abandoning them within the framework of a short-term ceasefire is unlikely.
At the same time, participants in talks warn that the next 48 hours may become decisive for reaching a deal and preventing large-scale escalation.
Trump's ultimatums to Iran
Earlier, US President Donald Trump repeatedly issued ultimatums to Iran regarding the opening of the Strait of Hormuz.
In particular, on March 22, he gave Tehran 48 hours to unblock shipping, threatening strikes on power plants in case of refusal. However, this deadline was later postponed.
On March 30, Trump again toughened his rhetoric, stating readiness to destroy power plants, oil wells, and Kharg Island if Iran does not agree to a deal.
On April 4, the US president again issued a 48-hour ultimatum on opening the strait, and the next day, April 5, reaffirmed his demand.
He stressed that if Iran refuses to restore shipping by the evening of April 7, the United States may carry out strikes on the country's energy infrastructure.
