Trump Signals Skepticism as Iran Pushes New Peace Plan
AFP
Washington: Prospects for renewed diplomacy between the United States and Iran remain uncertain after US President Donald Trump expressed doubt over a fresh peace proposal submitted by Tehran, even as both sides signal readiness for further confrontation.
The proposal, reportedly a 14-point plan delivered through Islamabad, outlines steps to end hostilities and introduce a new framework for managing the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. However, Trump indicated the plan is unlikely to gain acceptance, arguing that Iran has yet to face sufficient consequences for its past actions.
Speaking on his Truth Social platform and later to reporters in Florida, Trump said he would review the proposal but warned that military options remain on the table. He declined to define specific triggers for potential action, stating only that a response would depend on Iran’s behavior.
The diplomatic deadlock comes despite a ceasefire that took effect on April 8, following more than two months of conflict. A prior round of peace talks failed to produce a breakthrough, leaving negotiations stalled.
Iranian officials, meanwhile, struck a firm tone. Senior military figure Mohammad Jafar Asadi warned that another conflict with the United States remains a real possibility, citing what he described as Washington’s lack of commitment to agreements.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi emphasized that the United States must now decide between diplomacy and escalation, adding that Tehran is prepared for either path.
Tensions have also intensified around Iran’s nuclear programme. While US officials have pushed to bring the issue back into negotiations, Iran has defended its position, accusing Washington of double standards and insisting its uranium enrichment activities remain within international oversight frameworks.
The broader conflict continues to strain global markets and regional stability. Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted key energy supplies, contributing to a sharp rise in oil prices, now significantly above pre-war levels. At the same time, US countermeasures targeting Iranian ports have deepened the standoff.
Regionally, violence persists beyond the Iran-US front. In Lebanon, Israeli strikes against Hezbollah-linked targets continued despite an existing truce, with casualties reported and infrastructure damaged.
Domestically, both nations face internal pressures. In Washington, lawmakers are debating the legality of continued military engagement without congressional approval. In Iran, the economic fallout is becoming increasingly severe, with rising inflation and declining oil revenues placing strain on ordinary citizens.
With diplomacy stalled and rhetoric hardening on both sides, the situation remains volatile, with the risk of renewed escalation looming.
