Tehran has approached key Gulf nations to appeal to US President Donald Trump to pressure Israel into agreeing to an immediate ceasefire, according to a report published by Reuters on Monday, June 16.
According to two Iranian and three regional sources cited by the agency, Iran is willing to show flexibility in its nuclear programme negotiations if the attacks by Israel stop.
Iran Offers Nuclear Concessions For Ceasefire
The Islamic Republic has conveyed through diplomatic backchannels, primarily Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, that it would not enter any serious nuclear discussions while Israeli airstrikes continue. “Iran made clear to Oman and Qatar that it would not negotiate while it is under attack,” an official briefed on Tehran’s communications told Reuters.
Following Israel’s surprise attack on Friday morning, which reportedly targeted top Iranian military commanders and damaged nuclear sites, tensions have sharply escalated. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has remained silent publicly, while Israeli National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi told Army Radio, “It is a little early for that. You don't go to war and look to end it three days later.”
Gulf States Scramble To Contain Escalation
As per the report, leaders and diplomats from across the Gulf have been urgently working phones through the weekend, seeking to prevent further escalation. “The Gulf states are deeply concerned the conflict will spin out of control,” a source close to Gulf government officials told Reuters.
Mediator Oman is reportedly preparing a draft ceasefire proposal that includes a one-to-three-year suspension of Iran’s nuclear enrichment, full access for international inspectors, and confidence-building measures. In return, Iran would expect sanctions relief and recognition of its right to a peaceful nuclear programme.
Turkey and Russia have also been approached, with President Putin reportedly agreeing to speak to both Trump and Netanyahu. Iran’s tone, sources say, signals its genuine interest in halting the conflict. “Tehran is serious about pursuing a ceasefire because of fears the war could spread... with consequences that could last for decades,” an Iranian source told the news agency.
Iran’s foreign ministry and the White House have not yet released an official statement on the same.
