Iran Reviews US War Proposal, Rejects Direct Negotiations

Iran has confirmed that it is reviewing a proposal from the United States aimed at ending the ongoing Gulf conflict, but firmly denied engaging in any direct negotiations with Washington, according to Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.

Speaking on state television, Araqchi clarified that while messages are being exchanged through mediators, this should not be interpreted as formal talks with the US. He added that the proposals have been forwarded to Iran’s top leadership, and an official stance will be announced if required.

Iran’s Conditions and Regional Demands

Sources indicate that Iran has conveyed to intermediaries that any potential ceasefire agreement must include Lebanon, signaling Tehran’s intent to broaden the scope of negotiations beyond its own borders.

Despite initial resistance, the latest remarks suggest Iran may be open to a diplomatic resolution—but only if its strategic conditions are met.

US Proposal and Trump’s Remarks

US President Donald Trump claimed that Iranian leaders are eager to strike a deal but are hesitant due to internal and external pressures.

Reports suggest Washington’s proposal includes:

• Eliminating Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium

• Halting nuclear enrichment activities

• Restricting its ballistic missile program

• Ending support for regional allied groups

However, the White House has not officially confirmed the details. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt warned that failure to comply could result in intensified military action.

Israel’s Concerns

Israeli officials remain skeptical about Iran accepting such terms and are reportedly wary that US negotiators might offer concessions. Israel has also emphasized maintaining its right to carry out pre-emptive strikes under any agreement.

Military Escalation Continues

According to US Central Command, more than 10,000 targets inside Iran have been struck. Officials claim:

• 92% of Iran’s major naval assets have been destroyed

• Drone and missile launch capabilities have dropped by over 90%

• Two-thirds of military production facilities have been damaged

Meanwhile, Israel has launched fresh strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure, including ship and submarine construction sites. Iranian media reported civilian casualties after a residential area in Tehran was hit.

In response, Iran has continued missile and drone attacks on Israel and US allies, with countries like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait intercepting incoming threats.

Rising Regional Risks

Iran has warned it could expand the conflict by targeting strategic maritime routes, particularly the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a key global shipping lane.

Additionally, the Strait of Hormuz—through which nearly 20% of global oil supply passes—has effectively been disrupted, raising serious concerns about energy security.

Global Market Reaction

Financial markets showed cautious optimism following reports of the US proposal:

• Global equities posted modest gains

• Oil prices declined amid hopes of de-escalation

US Military Build-Up

The Pentagon is preparing to deploy thousands of additional troops to the Gulf region, including airborne forces and Marine units, increasing the likelihood of a potential ground operation if diplomacy fails.