President Donald Trump rejected a response from Iran to a U.S. proposal aimed at ending combat and securing maritime transport in the Persian Gulf.
The failure of these negotiations threatens to prolong hostilities that have lasted about 10 weeks [4] and maintains instability in one of the world's most critical shipping lanes.
Iran submitted its response on May 10, 2026 [1], transmitting the document through Pakistan as an intermediary [2]. The original U.S. proposal sought to end active hostilities, ensure the safety of commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf, and address the status of sanctions [3].
According to Iranian state media, the response aimed to advance those goals while proposing that the nuclear issue be reserved for later discussion [3]. However, the administration found the terms unsatisfactory.
President Trump criticized the response in a social media post on May 11, 2026 [2]. He said the terms were unacceptable, stating, "I don't like it. It is completely unacceptable" [1].
While some reports indicate the response was delivered on May 10 [1], other sources suggested Iran was still examining the proposal and had not yet delivered a final answer [4]. The U.S. president's public reaction indicates that a formal communication was received and reviewed by the White House.
“"I don't like it. It is completely unacceptable"”
The rejection of the Iranian response signals a significant diplomatic deadlock. By attempting to decouple the cessation of hostilities from the nuclear issue, Iran sought a phased peace process; however, the Trump administration's refusal suggests it will not agree to a ceasefire without comprehensive concessions on nuclear capabilities and sanctions.
