U.S. Rejects Iranian Proposal as Ceasefire Falters
The United States and Iran reached another deadlock on Monday over terms to end their ongoing conflict, as a fragile ceasefire showed increasing signs of strain. Fresh exchanges of fire, drone attacks on Gulf states, and renewed fighting between Israel and Hezbollah have heightened fears of a return to open warfare.
President Donald Trump is expected to use his upcoming trip to China to urge President Xi Jinping to pressure Iran into concessions. China, the largest buyer of Iranian crude oil, holds significant leverage over Tehran. However, any deal remains elusive as Iran demands an end to the American blockade and sanctions before discussing its enriched uranium stockpile.
Trump Rejects New Iranian Proposal
Trump immediately dismissed a new Iranian proposal delivered via Pakistan on Sunday. According to Iranian state television, the proposal demanded war reparations, full sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, an end to sanctions, and the release of frozen assets. Iran also called for an immediate halt to hostilities, including the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei stated, “We did not demand any concessions — the only thing we demanded was Iran’s legitimate rights.” He added that the U.S. continues to insist on unreasonable demands. Iran offered to dilute part of its highly enriched uranium and transport the rest to a third country, with 30-day negotiations to finalize details.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered to take the uranium, as it did under the 2015 nuclear deal. However, Baghaei said Iran’s current focus is on ending the war.
Iran Executes Alleged Spy
Iran executed another man accused of spying for the CIA and Israel’s Mossad. State news agency IRNA identified the prisoner as Erfan Shakourzadeh, who allegedly relayed classified satellite communications. Iran has conducted numerous executions since nationwide protests in January, with activists criticizing closed-door trials.
Fresh Drone Attacks
Diplomatic efforts suffered a setback as drone attacks rattled the Gulf on Sunday. The United Arab Emirates intercepted a drone from Iran, Kuwait reported hostile drones, and Qatar said a freighter from Abu Dhabi was hit. The spokesman for Iran’s parliamentary national security commission warned, “Our restraint is over as of today.”
Israel Insists on Uranium Removal
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the conflict is not over, insisting on removing nuclear material from Iran. In a CBS interview, he stated that if negotiations fail, Israel and the U.S. “can reengage them militarily.” Netanyahu added that Iran’s government’s days are numbered, though it could take time. Despite heavy losses, Iran’s theocracy remains in power.
