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-backed ceasefire initiative, instead offering a competing negotiation framework as diplomats worked to maintain communication between the conflicting nations. An unnamed Iranian official, speaking through state television, stated that Tehran would not halt hostilities until it deemed the situation favorable, asserting the country would “decide when to end the war based on its own terms.”
Iran’s five-point proposal
The Iranian plan, outlined as five key demands, called for a halt to hostilities, the elimination of its officials, assurances against future conflicts, compensation for damages caused during the war, and continued Iranian oversight of the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the rejection, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt noted ongoing talks and described them as “productive,” adding that President Trump remains open to dialogue.
“We have a very catastrophic experience with US diplomacy,” said Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, in an interview with India Today on Tuesday.
Earlier in the day, a 15-point proposal from Pakistan had been presented to Iran, reportedly including eased sanctions, dismantling of its nuclear program, missile restrictions, and reopening the strategic Hormuz Strait. While the White House confirmed some elements of the plan, it clarified that not all points were finalized. Past negotiations had already stalled over similar demands.
Overnight and into Wednesday, Iran escalated its attacks on Israel and Gulf states, with one strike igniting a major fire at Kuwait International Airport. Meanwhile, Israel persisted in its aerial strikes against Iran. Despite this, Egyptian and Pakistani officials hinted that direct talks between Washington and Tehran could resume by Friday, possibly in Pakistan or Turkey.
The White House indicated face-to-face discussions were still on the table, though it urged caution in interpreting progress. Trump claimed negotiations were underway with an Iranian faction, including his son-in-law Jared Kushner, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and other top officials. However, Iranian representatives from the foreign ministry and military disputed this, casting doubt on the identity of the US team involved.
Amid the diplomatic tension, the US moved to reinforce its military presence in the Middle East. According to the Associated Press, at least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division and 5,000 additional Marines are being deployed. The Trump administration is also considering an invasion of Iran’s Kharg Island to pressure it into opening the Hormuz Strait, a critical oil passage for 20% of global supply.