• Pakistan mediates a revised Iranian proposal to the US to end the Middle East conflict.
• Discussions remain stalled despite a fragile ceasefire declared in April.
• Iran demands the release of frozen assets and lifting of sanctions as part of the peace terms.
• US President Trump warns that negotiations are under pressure as time runs short.
• Iran vows to respond to any provocation from the US or its allies.

Pakistan shared a revised proposal from Iran with the United States on May 18, which aims to address the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, according to a Pakistani source. The source indicated that there is a pressing need to close existing gaps in negotiations, stating, "We don't have much time," as talks continue to face challenges. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that the Iranian views had been "conveyed to the American side through Pakistan," though specific details were not disclosed about the proposal, according to Reuters.

The revised proposal reportedly includes demands from Iran for the release of frozen assets, an end to US-sanctioned blockades affecting Iranian ports, and an overall cessation of hostilities, particularly in Lebanon, where fighting continues with Hezbollah. U.S. officials have previously indicated that any agreement is contingent upon Iran addressing its nuclear ambitions and the safety of shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial area for global oil transport, according to Reuters, Channel News Asia, and Al Jazeera.

The U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed concern about the longevity of the ceasefire, remarking that it is "on life support," and urged Iran to move quickly in negotiations. He emphasized in a recent social media post that "the Clock is Ticking" for Iran, reinforcing the urgency of the situation as both sides approach a critical juncture in discussions. Trump is anticipated to convene with national security advisors to evaluate military options if negotiations stall further, as reported by Reuters, Channel News Asia, and Channel News Asia.

Baghaei stated that Iran is prepared for various outcomes should hostilities resume, asserting, "As for their threats, rest assured that we are fully aware of how to respond appropriately to even the smallest mistake from the opposing side." This indicates Iran's readiness to act decisively in light of perceived threats, underscoring the tense atmosphere surrounding the negotiations, according to Al Jazeera and Channel News Asia.