ISLAMABAD: Former Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry has outlined Iran’s firm negotiating stance with the United States under President Donald Trump, stating that Tehran wants comprehensive concessions before advancing on other issues.
Chaudhry, a seasoned Pakistani diplomat, highlighted that Iran is insisting on receiving key benefits upfront, particularly related to the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that this approach has left President Trump frustrated after multiple rounds of indirect engagements.
According to Chaudhry, Iran has made it clear that it will only proceed with further commitments once its core demands are met. This position comes amid ongoing efforts to stabilise a fragile ceasefire following earlier military escalations.
The former diplomat explained that Tehran views its current leverage as strong, especially regarding control over the strategic waterway. Approximately 20 percent of global oil supply passed through the Strait of Hormuz before recent disruptions.
**Official Position** Chaudhry stated that Iran has communicated it will not yield on other matters until the US addresses its priorities. “Iran wants all concessions first,” he observed in recent remarks.
He added that President Trump has issued various warnings but faces challenges in shifting Tehran’s calculus. Direct talks remain unlikely until Iran secures what it seeks.
Pakistan has played a facilitative role in hosting proximity talks between the two sides in Islamabad. Several rounds have occurred, though progress has been limited.
**Key Context on Hormuz** The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the impasse. US-led measures to secure shipping lanes have met resistance, with Iran maintaining its defensive posture in the area.
Global energy markets have felt the impact. Oil prices rose sharply after disruptions, contributing to higher fuel costs in multiple regions. Analysts estimate that full reopening and secure passage could ease pressure on international supply chains.
Chaudhry pointed out that China also has a strong interest in keeping the strait open due to its heavy reliance on Gulf energy imports. Beijing could potentially play a mediating role similar to its earlier facilitation between Saudi Arabia and Iran.
**Background** Tensions escalated earlier in 2026 following Israeli and US strikes on Iranian targets. Iran responded by restricting access in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting a US naval response and a subsequent ceasefire declaration.
Indirect negotiations, often hosted or supported by Pakistan, have focused on nuclear concerns, sanctions relief, regional security arrangements, and economic measures. No comprehensive agreement has yet been reached.
Iran has rejected proposals it considers made under pressure. Chaudhry noted that Tehran believes the current dynamics favour a harder line.
**Reactions and Implications** Market observers continue to monitor developments closely. Any sustained closure or restrictions in the strait could further affect energy prices and global trade routes.
Diplomatic sources indicate that both sides continue back-channel communications, though public statements show persistent gaps. Trump has described the ceasefire as being on “life support” after rejecting recent Iranian responses.
Pakistan’s involvement as a neutral facilitator has drawn attention from regional and international players. Officials in Islamabad have emphasised the importance of dialogue for broader stability.
**Strategic Outlook** Chaudhry suggested that a breakthrough may require significant US concessions on sanctions or maritime issues in exchange for Iranian steps on nuclear limits and security guarantees. China’s potential involvement could help bridge differences given its economic stakes.
Future rounds of engagement will likely test whether Iran maintains its current position or shows flexibility under sustained economic and diplomatic pressure. The coming weeks could determine if indirect talks yield a limited interim understanding or if the situation drifts toward renewed escalation.
Regional consequences extend beyond energy security. Stability in the Gulf affects trade routes, refugee flows, and security dynamics across West Asia.
Observers say the coming phase will hinge on whether practical arrangements on the Strait of Hormuz can be agreed upon as a confidence-building step before addressing wider differences.