Iran rejects US ceasefire plan and submits its own amid push for talks
Iran rejects US ceasefire plan and submits its own amid push for talks
On Wednesday, Iran turned down a US ceasefire initiative and introduced its own peace plan as mediators attempted to maintain communication between the conflicting nations. An unnamed Iranian official, as cited by state television, stated that Tehran would not halt hostilities until it felt its terms were satisfied, emphasizing its right to determine the end of the conflict. The proposal, conveyed through Pakistan, included conditions such as a cessation of fighting, the removal of Iranian officials, and assurances against new wars. However, the nation vowed to persist in its military operations unless these terms were fulfilled.
Despite the Iranian stance, the White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed ongoing talks and described them as “productive.” She noted that “it became clear that Iran wants to talk and President Trump is willing to listen,” though the US remained within its four- to six-week window for ending the war. The rescheduling of Trump’s trip to Beijing for 14 May fueled speculation that the administration aimed to conclude peace efforts by that date.
Intermediaries from Pakistan had earlier presented a 15-point ceasefire proposal to Iran, covering sanctions relief, nuclear program dismantling, missile restrictions, and the reopening of Hormuz. While some elements aligned with US interests, others were deemed too favorable to Washington. The plan had already encountered resistance in prior negotiations, with Iranian officials calling it “extremely maximalist and unreasonable.” Despite this, some remained open to further discussion.
“We have a very catastrophic experience with US diplomacy,” said Esmail Baghaei, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, in an interview with India Today on Tuesday.
Tehran’s five-point plan, which includes retaining control over Hormuz, appears unlikely to satisfy the US. Nevertheless, Egyptian and Pakistani officials suggested that in-person talks between Washington and Tehran could begin as early as Friday, with Pakistan or Turkey as potential locations. The White House acknowledged the possibility but urged caution, warning reporters not to “get ahead of themselves.”
Meanwhile, the conflict intensified, with Iran launching additional drone and missile strikes against Israel and Gulf nations. A significant fire broke out at Kuwait’s international airport, while Israel continued its aerial campaign against Iran. The US, meanwhile, has been bolstering its military presence in the Middle East, with the Associated Press reporting the deployment of 1,000 troops from the 82nd airborne division, 5,000 more marines, and thousands of sailors. This move coincided with rumors that the Trump administration might consider invading Iran’s Kharg Island to pressure it into reopening Hormuz.
Iranian officials remain cautious about reengaging with the US, recalling prior attacks during negotiations. The US had struck Iranian nuclear sites in a 12-day war with Israel last summer and launched its current conflict just as a broader agreement seemed within reach. Additionally, Israel and the US have targeted key Iranian leaders, including pragmatic figures like Ali Larijani, raising fears for the safety of Iranian diplomats involved in talks.
