President Donald Trump said he cannot accept a 14-point response submitted by Iran regarding a U.S. proposal to end regional conflict.
The deadlock persists despite attempts to establish a ceasefire, as the two nations struggle to agree on the terms of military withdrawal and maritime security. Failure to reach an agreement could prolong hostilities across multiple fronts, including Lebanon.
Iran submitted its response on May 2 [1] through Pakistan, which acted as the intermediary. The Iranian proposal followed an initial U.S. offer consisting of nine points [1], though other reports cited 15 items [5]. The U.S. proposal included a request for a two-month ceasefire [1].
Key demands within the negotiations include the withdrawal of U.S. forces from the surrounding region, the lifting of maritime blockades, and the cessation of fighting on all fronts, including Lebanon [1]. The discussions also involve the introduction of a new management mechanism for the Strait of Hormuz [1].
Trump said the Iranian response was unacceptable because the country has not paid a sufficient price. Despite this, he said that Iran is in a state of devastation and desires an agreement [1].
Trump previously said that Iran had agreed to the majority of the terms [3], but he now maintains a harder line on the final requirements. He has indicated a desire to reach a resolution within 30 days [1].
“I cannot imagine that it would be acceptable since Iran has not paid a sufficient price”
The tension between Trump's public assertion that Iran is 'devastated' and his rejection of their 14-point response suggests a strategy of maximum pressure. By signaling that Iran is desperate for a deal while simultaneously rejecting their terms, the U.S. administration appears to be attempting to force deeper concessions before the 30-day window closes.
