Trump Describes Iran Ceasefire as “Unbelievably Weak”
US President Donald Trump has stated that the Iran ceasefire, which has been in place for about a month, is “on massive life support.” Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump described the ceasefire as “unbelievably weak” despite it largely holding since April with occasional exchanges of fire.
Iran’s Counteroffer and US Response
Iran submitted a counteroffer to the US aimed at ending the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal reportedly includes:
- An immediate end to hostilities on all fronts, including Israeli attacks on Iran-supported Hezbollah in Lebanon
- A halt to the US naval blockade of Iranian ports
- Guarantees against further attacks on Iran
- Compensation for war damages
- Recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz
Trump rejected the proposal, calling it “totally unacceptable” and a “piece of garbage.” He also accused Iran of reneging on an agreement to allow the US to remove its enriched uranium supply, insisting that Iran would “never have a nuclear weapon.”
Iran’s Position and Statements
In response to Trump’s rejection, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf stated that Iran’s armed forces are “ready to respond and to teach a lesson for any aggression.” He emphasized that there is “no alternative but to accept the rights of the Iranian people as laid out in the 14-point proposal.”
Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry, described Tehran’s proposals as “responsible” and “generous,” adding that Iran would act “in any way necessary to secure our interests.”
Context of the Conflict and Ceasefire
The conflict escalated with Israeli and US forces launching massive air strikes on Iran starting in late February. The US has enforced a naval blockade on Iranian ports, while Iran has blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes. This blockade has contributed to rising global oil prices.
The ceasefire came into effect last month and has been largely observed despite tensions. US officials have reportedly proposed a 14-point memorandum including suspension of Iranian nuclear enrichment, lifting of sanctions, and restoring free transit through the Strait of Hormuz, contingent on a final agreement.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium must be dismantled before the war can be considered over.
