Islamabad Accord Ceasefire Framework Takes Shape as Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey Mediate Between US and Iran

A two-phase ceasefire proposal tentatively called the Islamabad Accord is being negotiated through Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey, with direct text messages exchanged between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran FM Araghchi. The first phase would establish an immediate ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with 15-20 days to finalize a wider settlement. Iran rejected a temporary ceasefire and responded with 10 clauses demanding a permanent end to hostilities, sanctions relief, and reconstruction. Iranian officials described the killing of former FM Kharazi, who was overseeing a possible meeting with VP Vance, as a deliberate attempt to derail diplomacy.