Washington: US President Donald Trump on Sunday rejected Iran’s response to a new US-backed proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Tehran’s position as “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE,” escalating diplomatic tensions further.
“I have just read the response from Iran’s so-called ‘Representatives.’ I don’t like it — TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE! Thank you for your attention to this matter,” Trump wrote.
Iran Responds via Pakistani Mediation
The Iranian response was reportedly delivered through Pakistani mediators following a US proposal designed to stabilise the region after weeks of military clashes and maritime disruptions.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that Iran had submitted a reply but refused to disclose details, saying, “I can’t go into more details.”
Tehran’s Conditions on Peace Framework
According to Iranian state media, Tehran’s response focused on ending hostilities in the region. Other reports suggested Iran demanded a formal end to the war, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, withdrawal of US naval presence, lifting of sanctions, and an additional 30-day negotiation window.
Iran also reportedly suggested that its nuclear programme be addressed separately in future talks.
Trump Escalates Rhetoric Against Iran
Following Iran’s response, Trump accused Tehran of “playing games with the United States” and warned, “They will be laughing no longer!”
The exchange follows a 14-point US proposal sent last week through intermediaries, which reportedly included strict conditions on Iran’s nuclear and regional activities.
Rising Military Tensions in Strait of Hormuz
Tensions have continued to rise in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route. Iran claimed it attacked three US naval destroyers after they allegedly entered disputed waters, using missiles and drones and claiming “serious damage.” The US, however, denied any such damage, stating its vessels remained unharmed.
US Strikes and Regional Fallout
Earlier, the US reportedly struck two Iranian-flagged tankers accused of breaching a naval blockade near the Gulf of Oman. Subsequent US military strikes targeted areas on Qeshm Island and near Bandar Abbas along Iran’s southern coast.
The conflict has also spilled into neighbouring waters, with Qatar reporting that a commercial vessel near its coast was hit by a drone attack, causing a fire.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue Amid Crisis
Despite escalating tensions, diplomatic efforts continue. US officials, including Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, held talks with Qatari leadership to explore de-escalation options with Pakistani mediation support.
Meanwhile, US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz said negotiations were progressing slowly due to instability in Iran’s leadership and reiterated calls for international measures to prevent further escalation in maritime routes.