Iran gives negative response to US ceasefire plan amid push for talks
Iran gives negative response to US ceasefire plan amid push for talks
Iranian officials voiced early discontent over a US ceasefire proposal unveiled on Wednesday, even as intermediaries hinted at potential direct dialogue between the two nations as early as this weekend. Pakistan’s representatives, who reportedly conveyed the plan to Tehran, described it as a 15-point framework aimed at easing sanctions on Iran, dismantling its nuclear program, curbing missile usage, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz—a critical oil transit point for roughly 20% of global oil supplies. An Egyptian official added that the plan would also limit Iran’s backing of militant groups in the Middle East.
Sticking points and skepticism
Some provisions in the 15-point plan had previously been contentious in earlier negotiations. A senior Iranian official, speaking to Al Jazeera, called it “extremely maximalist and unreasonable,” while others acknowledged the country was still evaluating the offer, despite viewing it as overly accommodating to US interests. Iran had earlier dismissed diplomatic initiatives, mocking President Donald Trump and claiming Washington was engaged in internal talks.
Overnight and on Wednesday, Tehran escalated its military actions against Israel and Gulf states, including an attack that caused significant damage at Kuwait’s international airport. Meanwhile, Israel continued its strikes on Iran. Lt Col Ebrahim Zolfaghari, an Iranian military spokesperson, stated,
“Our first and last words have been the same from day one, and it will stay that way: someone like us will never come to terms with someone like you.”
War context and troop movements
The 15-point plan was not entirely novel, having been discussed before the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Iran had resisted concessions on its ballistic missile program and regional proxy networks, which it considers vital for defense against the militarily stronger US and Israel. Egyptian and Pakistani officials suggested that in-person talks could commence as soon as Friday in Pakistan or possibly in Turkey.
Trump claimed the US was negotiating with a faction within the Iranian government, involving his son-in-law Jared Kushner, special envoy Steve Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Vice President JD Vance. Kushner and Witkoff reportedly proposed a one-month ceasefire during discussions. However, Iran’s foreign ministry and military officials denied direct engagement with the US, casting doubt on who exactly was involved in the talks.
Iranian officials remain wary of returning to negotiations with the US, citing earlier attacks during discussions. The US had bombed Iran’s nuclear facilities in a 12-day war with Israel last summer and launched a new conflict while a broader agreement was thought to be near. Israel has also targeted Iran’s leadership, including pragmatic figures like Ali Larijani, the secretary of the supreme national security council, raising concerns for the safety of Iranian diplomats.
Domestic pressure and global impact
Domestically, pressure has mounted on Trump to end the war in Iran, as attacks on Gulf energy infrastructure and the near-blockade of the Strait of Hormuz have driven global oil prices to unprecedented levels. Prices dipped after the 15-point plan was announced, as investors anticipated a resolution to the worst energy crisis in decades. A new poll revealed that 59% of Americans believe the US war in Iran has “gone too far,” contributing to Trump’s approval rating falling to a historic low of 36%, according to a Reuters survey.
Despite the ceasefire proposal, Israel has pressed on with its military operations, aiming to weaken the Iranian regime further. As talks stalled, the US reinforced its military presence in the Middle East, with the Associated Press reporting the deployment of at least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division, along with 5,000 marines and thousands of sailors. The US continues to amass forces, signaling its resolve to maintain pressure on Iran.
