In a notable shift from the Iranian government's hardline approach, former Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has called for negotiations with the United States to end ongoing conflicts. In an op-ed for Foreign Affairs, he proposed that Iran limit its nuclear program and reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for full sanctions relief. Zarif, who played a key role in the 2015 nuclear deal, argued that continuing hostilities would lead to unnecessary civilian suffering and infrastructure damage. He also suggested a mutual nonaggression pact with the US and the normalization of economic relations, a significant change given the lack of diplomatic ties since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Zarif's moderate stance contrasts sharply with the rhetoric from Iran's current military and political leaders, who advocate for continued resistance against the US and Israel. Meanwhile, the US response remains mixed, with President Trump mentioning ongoing talks while also issuing threats against Iran.