Former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has urged Tehran to consider diplomatic engagement with the United States as a pathway to ending the current conflict, proposing concessions on its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief.
In an article published in Foreign Affairs, Zarif argued that while Iran may currently appear to hold a strategic advantage in tensions involving the US and Israel, prolonging the situation would only deepen civilian suffering and worsen infrastructural damage.
He suggested that Iran could take a strategic step by “declaring victory” and shifting toward negotiations aimed at halting hostilities and preventing further escalation.
As part of his proposal, Zarif recommended that Iran scale back its nuclear activities and reopen the vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route.
He noted that such gestures could create room for renewed dialogue, including the possibility of a non-aggression agreement and the revival of economic ties between both nations.
Zarif, who was instrumental in brokering the 2015 nuclear deal, is seen as a moderate figure within Iran’s political space, though he currently holds no official role.
His remarks stand out as one of the earliest high-profile appeals for de-escalation, at a time when many within Iran’s leadership continue to favour a more hardline stance.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has hinted at behind-the-scenes talks with Tehran but has also warned of serious consequences should negotiations fail.
In a post shared on X, Zarif acknowledged his reservations about making the proposal public, criticising Trump’s tone while maintaining that pursuing peace in alignment with Iran’s national interest remains crucial.
