Washington: United States President Donald Trump has rejected Iran’s response to a US backed peace proposal, describing Tehran’s position as “totally unacceptable” amid growing tensions in the Middle East and fears of a wider regional conflict.
The latest diplomatic dispute comes after Iran formally replied to a proposal aimed at reducing violence and opening talks between the two countries. Reports said the proposal was delivered through international mediators, including Pakistan, as efforts continue to prevent the conflict from escalating further.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, Iran’s response included demands for the lifting of US sanctions, guarantees against future military attacks, and recognition of its role in maintaining security in the Gulf region. Tehran also reportedly refused to fully dismantle its nuclear infrastructure, which remains one of Washington’s key demands.
President Trump reacted strongly to the response and warned that the United States would not accept conditions that fail to address concerns about Iran’s nuclear activities and regional military influence. Speaking through his social media platform, Trump said Iran’s reply did not meet the requirements needed for progress toward peace.
The conflict between the United States and Iran has continued to create instability across the Middle East in recent weeks. Military tensions have affected shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transport corridors. The uncertainty surrounding the conflict has also caused oil prices to rise sharply in global markets.
Energy analysts said fears of further disruptions in oil supplies pushed crude prices up by several dollars per barrel on Monday. Many commercial shipping companies are still avoiding parts of the Gulf region because of security concerns and the risk of military attacks.
At the same time, fighting linked to regional armed groups has continued to increase tensions. Clashes involving Hezbollah and Israeli forces in southern Lebanon remain a major concern for international observers. Reports of drone attacks and military incidents in Gulf waters have also raised fears that the crisis could spread to other countries in the region.
Diplomatic efforts are continuing despite the strong public disagreements between Washington and Tehran. Pakistan, Qatar, and China are among the countries trying to encourage dialogue and reduce tensions. Political observers say both sides are still keeping communication channels open even as public statements remain harsh.
Trump is also expected to discuss the crisis during upcoming meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping. China has called for restraint from all sides and urged a peaceful settlement to avoid greater instability in global markets and international trade.
The crisis is becoming an important political issue inside the United States as well. Rising fuel prices and concerns about another long military conflict are creating pressure on the Trump administration. Many Americans are worried that continued fighting could lead to a larger war involving several countries in the Middle East.
International experts say the coming days could be critical for the future of the peace process. While both sides continue to exchange tough statements, diplomats believe there is still a possibility for renewed negotiations if compromises can be reached on key issues.
For now, however, hopes for an immediate breakthrough remain uncertain. The sharp rejection from Washington and Iran’s firm demands suggest that major differences still stand in the way of any final agreement.