Iranian president signals willingness to end conflict with Israel and the US

On March 31, 2026, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a phone conversation with European Council President Antonio Costa regarding the ongoing five-week conflict. Pezeshkian stated that Iran is willing to end hostilities with Israel and the United States, provided that specific conditions are met. These conditions include guarantees of non-aggression, the payment of financial reparations, clear attribution of responsibility, and a cessation of conflict on all fronts. Tehran claims the conflict began on February 28, 2026, with joint US and Israeli strikes, followed by Iranian retaliation against regional targets. Additionally, China and Pakistan have proposed a five-point peace plan focusing on protecting civilians and infrastructure, such as desalination plants, while ensuring the territorial integrity of Iran and Gulf nations. The Iranian government maintains that current efforts by the US and its allies lack the necessary commitment to meaningful de-escalation.