Tensions between Iran and the United States remain high as diplomatic efforts stall, with Tehran indicating it is prepared for either renewed negotiations or escalation, following remarks by Donald Trump dismissing its latest proposal.
Iran’s deputy foreign minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the next move lies with Washington. “Now the ball is in the United States’ court to choose the path of diplomacy or the continuation of a confrontational approach,” he told diplomats in Tehran, as quoted by state broadcaster IRIB.
He added, “Iran, with the aim of securing its national interests and security, is prepared for both paths.”
Proposal centres on Strait, delays nuclear talks
According to a senior Iranian official, Tehran’s proposal focuses on reopening shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz and lifting US-imposed blockades, while postponing discussions on its nuclear programme. The official described the move as an attempt to create space for broader agreement later.
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Under this framework, hostilities would end with assurances from both the US and Israel against future strikes. In return, Iran would allow maritime traffic to resume, while future negotiations would address nuclear restrictions and sanctions relief.
“Under this framework, negotiations over the more complicated nuclear issue have been moved to the final stage to create a more conducive atmosphere,” the official said.
Trump signals hesitation, faces pressure
Trump has maintained a cautious stance, stating he is “not satisfied” with the proposal. Speaking at the White House, he said, “Do we want to go and just blast the hell out of them and finish them forever? Or do we want to try and make a deal?”
He also noted “on a human basis” he would prefer avoiding military action, even as he told Congress he could continue operations beyond a legal deadline, arguing the ceasefire had “terminated” hostilities.
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Energy disruption and political stakes
The ongoing standoff has had serious repercussions on the flow of energy worldwide, as Iran has blocked shipping via the Hormuz corridor, which is vital for almost one-fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas. The situation has driven up fuel prices in the United States, creating political problems domestically as the mid-term elections approach.
Though there have been brief pauses in the attack operations against the US and Israel over the past few weeks, no resolution seems to be on the horizon yet.
