Iran has formulated its response to ceasefire proposals, foreign ministry spokesperson says

Iran has prepared its stance on the recent ceasefire proposals communicated through intermediaries, according to a spokesperson from the foreign ministry on Monday. The spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, stated that negotiations would not be acceptable if they included ultimatums or threats of war crimes. He mentioned that Tehran's requirements, which align with its national interests, have already been shared through intermediary channels. Baghaei also noted that previous demands from the U.S., such as the 15-point plan, were turned down as they were deemed "excessive." "Iran openly states its legitimate demands. This should not be seen as a sign of yielding, but rather a demonstration of its confidence in standing firm on its positions," Baghaei remarked during a press conference. He added that "we have our own responses" ready and will reveal the details when appropriate, in reply to a question from an Iranian journalist about ongoing ceasefire efforts involving Iran and the U.S. Reports earlier indicated that Iran and the United States received a plan to halt hostilities that might start on Monday, which would also allow for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan created a framework for this ceasefire, which was shared with both Iran and the U.S. overnight. The plan outlines a two-tier approach featuring an immediate ceasefire followed by a more comprehensive agreement. Axios reported on Sunday that discussions were ongoing between the U.S., Iran, and regional mediators about a possible 45-day ceasefire as part of a two-phase arrangement aimed at achieving a lasting end to the conflict, referencing sources from the U.S., Israel, and the region. According to the proposal, the ceasefire would begin right away, allowing the Strait of Hormuz to reopen, with 15 to 20 days allocated to finalize a broader agreement. The tentative name for this deal is the "Islamabad Accord," which includes a regional framework for the strait, with final negotiations to take place in Islamabad. This latest diplomatic effort comes amid increasing hostilities, raising concerns about potential disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil supplies.