WASHINGTON, May 11: Donald Trump has rejected Iran’s proposal to end the months-long conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran, calling the response “totally unacceptable” without revealing specific details.
Trump announced his reaction on his Truth Social platform after reportedly reviewing Tehran’s latest proposal on Sunday.
He later told Axios that he found Iran’s response inappropriate and unsatisfactory, but declined to explain what exactly had been rejected.
The conflict began on February 28 and severely disrupted global energy markets after fighting led to the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s crude oil supply passes.
The closure caused major fuel shortages and increased economic pressure in several countries dependent on oil imports.
Although attacks were paused after a ceasefire agreement on April 8, efforts to reach a permanent peace settlement have so far failed.
Trump accused Iran of misleading the United States and other nations for decades. In his comments, he claimed Tehran had been “playing games” with Washington for nearly 50 years and warned that “they will be laughing no longer.”
His strong remarks suggested growing frustration within the US administration over the stalled negotiations.
At the same time, pressure has increased from Republican leaders for a tougher response toward Iran.
Senator Lindsey Graham publicly supported Trump’s diplomatic efforts but argued that the latest Iranian response showed diplomacy may no longer be enough.
In a post on X, Graham said it might now be time to consider “changing course” and hinted at possible military action.
He referred to “Project Freedom Plus,” a naval operation designed to protect commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
The operation had been launched briefly by Trump but was suspended in less than two days.
Trump also confirmed that he spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday about Iran and the broader regional situation.
Trump described the conversation as positive and said the two leaders maintained a strong relationship.
However, he emphasized that negotiations with Iran remained primarily his responsibility.
The central issue in the negotiations remains Iran’s uranium enrichment programme.
The United States has demanded that Iran commit to ending uranium enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief and access to billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets.
Another major issue is reopening the Strait of Hormuz to ensure the smooth flow of global oil supplies.
Despite ongoing diplomatic talks, both sides remain far apart on key demands, making a long-term peace agreement uncertain. (AP)
