Hopes for peace in the Middle East suffered a major setback after Donald Trump rejected Iran’s latest response to a proposed US backed peace framework, increasing fears of renewed conflict in the region.
Trump said he found Iran’s proposal unacceptable and made it clear that Washington was not satisfied with Tehran’s response to ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the conflict that has continued for nearly ten weeks.
Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump said, “I did not like it at all. It is unacceptable,” shortly after reports emerged about Iran’s response sent through mediators in Pakistan.
According to reports, Iran had proposed prioritising an end to conflicts involving allied regional groups, including in Lebanon, along with ensuring maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz before broader agreements could move forward.
Iran reportedly insisted that the conflict in Lebanon must end before Tehran fully commits to ending hostilities. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also reiterated that Iran would not surrender to pressure and said negotiations should not be viewed as submission or compromise against national interests.
Tehran’s position remains that discussions on nuclear issues and sanctions could take place later, while the United States continues demanding a complete freeze on Iran’s nuclear programme. Trump has reportedly insisted on halting uranium enrichment activities for 12 years.
Iran’s response was prepared after lengthy consultations between President Pezeshkian and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to reports from Tehran.
Iran has also demanded firm guarantees from the United States before any agreement involving the Strait of Hormuz can proceed, accusing Washington of carrying out attacks during previous negotiation periods and damaging trust between the two countries.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high across the Gulf region, with reports of fresh Iranian attacks targeting Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
The developments come as Trump prepares for an upcoming visit to China amid growing international pressure to end the conflict. The war has also triggered concerns over global energy supplies and economic instability, creating increasing pressure on Washington both internationally and domestically.
