WASHINGTON: Iran has formally responded to the latest U.S. ceasefire proposal through Pakistani mediators, seeking negotiations focused on a permanent end to the war — a move swiftly rejected by President Donald Trump, who called the response “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!”
According to Iranian state TV, Tehran wants an end to hostilities on all fronts, including in Lebanon, where Israel continues to fight the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group. Iran also seeks guarantees for the security of shipping routes. The latest U.S. proposal reportedly addressed a three-pronged framework: ending the war, reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and rolling back Iran’s nuclear program.
Trump, without offering details on the Iranian response, took to social media to voice his rejection. He also accused Tehran of “playing games” with the United States for nearly five decades, adding: “They will be laughing no longer!”
Despite the tough rhetoric, the Trump administration appears to be leaving the door open for further talks. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz told ABC earlier that the president is giving diplomacy “every chance we possibly can before going back to hostilities.”
No timeline has been given for the next steps, but tensions remain high as both sides dig in on their po
sitions.
