Iran has formally submitted a 10‑point response to a U.S. plan aimed at ending the ongoing war, crystallizing Tehran’s demands and adding a new layer of uncertainty for global energy markets.
The response, conveyed through mediators including Pakistan, rejects a temporary ceasefire and instead calls for a comprehensive, permanent end to hostilities, along with broader political and economic guarantees.
This development comes as efforts continue to broker a ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global oil shipments.
Iran’s 10-Point Response
- Permanent end to the war – Iran rejects a temporary ceasefire and wants a comprehensive, lasting cessation of hostilities.
- End to all regional conflicts involving Iran and its allies – including military engagements and proxy operations.
- Protocol for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz – A security guarantee for the critical shipping route.
- Full lifting of international sanctions on Iran – Economic relief as part of any peace settlement.
- Post-war reconstruction and compensation – Support for rebuilding areas damaged during the conflict.
- Guarantees against future aggression – Assurances that Iran will not be attacked again.
- Rejection of interim or phased agreements – Iran demands broad guarantees rather than short-term or phased steps.
- Diplomatic recognition of Iran’s regional security concerns – Formal acknowledgment of Tehran’s strategic interests.
- Reparations or accountability for conflict-related losses – Financial and legal measures for damage caused by the war.
- Conditions for full normalization of relations with the U.S. and allies – Long-term political framework tying peace to broader diplomatic recognition.
Also Read: Israeli Military Destroys Iranian Aircraft at Three Tehran Airports
Oil Prices Swing on Diplomatic Signals and Supply Risk
Global oil markets have been increasing as investors assess the likelihood of a quick diplomatic resolution and continued disruptions to energy flows.
Brent crude futures slipped to around $108–109 per barrel, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures also retreated as traders weighed conflicting signals on whether peace talks could open the Strait of Hormuz and restore supply flows.
Even this modest pullback follows weeks of elevated pricing borne of underlying supply fears.
The ongoing conflict and closures in the Gulf have created shocks to oil markets at times earlier in the crisis, and prices surged as hostilities and shipping risks disrupted flows through the Strait.
Israel’s New War Strategy
Since the war began on February 28, 2026, Israel has adopted a “decapitation strategy,” a tactic focused on eliminating Iran’s top leadership through precise, intelligence-driven strikes.
This method targets command centers, residences, and secure locations, often in Tehran, aiming to dismantle decision-making structures rather than destroy equipment.
By early April 2026, at least 25 prominent Iranian figures have been confirmed killed in these targeted operations.
Also Read: Israel Kills IRGC Undercover Commander in Tehran Airstrike
Israel is now carrying out ongoing targeted assassinations, sometimes multiple in a single day, supported by real-time intelligence and air dominance.
The result is a steady removal of Iran’s leadership layer, creating command disruption, forcing rapid replacements, and weakening coordination across military and intelligence structures.
Earlier strikes targeted missiles, air defenses, and command systems to weaken Iran’s ability to respond or threaten Israel long-term.
