By By Elizabeth Ugbo
US President Donald Trump has rejected Iran’s latest peace proposal, describing it as “stupid” and warning that the fragile ceasefire remains “on life support.” Trump made the remarks on Monday after Iran demanded an end to the war, the lifting of US sanctions, compensation for war damages, and guarantees against future attacks. The disagreement has deepened tensions over the ongoing 10-week conflict, which continues to disrupt oil shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran Demands End to War and Sanctions
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, defended Tehran’s response to Washington’s proposal. He said Iran only requested its “legitimate rights.”
According to Baghaei, Iran demanded an immediate end to the conflict, the removal of US naval blockades, and the release of frozen Iranian assets. Tehran also called for sanctions relief and renewed access to global oil markets.
Iran further insisted on maintaining sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and securing safe passage for regional oil exports.
Trump Rejects Tehran’s Proposal
Trump quickly dismissed Iran’s response and criticised its contents during a public appearance on Monday.
“The ceasefire is the weakest right now after reading that piece of garbage they sent us,” Trump said.
He also claimed Iran may be willing to hand over its enriched uranium stockpile, which he referred to as “the nuclear dust.” Trump added that only the United States and China could retrieve the material.
However, Iranian officials have not publicly confirmed such an arrangement.
Distrust Clouds Negotiations
Al Jazeera correspondent Tohid Asadi reported from Tehran that deep mistrust continues to shape Iran’s position.
According to Asadi, Iranian leaders believe previous negotiations failed because the country faced American and Israeli airstrikes during diplomatic talks.
As a result, Tehran now seeks stronger security guarantees before entering another agreement with Washington.
Iranian officials fear a repeat of what they describe as a cycle of war, temporary ceasefires, and renewed attacks.
Strait of Hormuz Crisis Shakes Global Economy
The prolonged conflict has unsettled global markets because the Strait of Hormuz remains heavily restricted.
The waterway serves as a key route for oil and gas exports from the Middle East. Continued instability has raised concerns about rising energy prices and supply disruptions worldwide.
The US blockade of Iranian ports has also reduced Iran’s oil export capacity, increasing pressure on Tehran’s economy.
Lebanon Conflict Included in Iran’s Proposal
Iran’s proposal also addressed fighting in Lebanon, where Hezbollah continues clashes with US ally Israel.
Tehran called for an end to hostilities across all fronts and demanded guarantees against future military attacks.
Despite renewed diplomatic efforts, negotiations between Washington and Tehran remain stalled as both sides maintain opposing positions.
