Trump Rejects Iran Peace Proposal as 'Garbage'; Ceasefire on 'Life Support'
Primary region Middle East
Tags Diplomacy · Security · Energy
Regions US · Middle East
President Trump on May 11 rejected Iran's counter-proposal to end the 10-week war, calling it 'garbage' and a 'piece of garbage,' and declared the April 8 ceasefire to be 'on massive life support.' Tehran's proposal, delivered via Pakistani mediation, demanded an end to war on all fronts including Lebanon, US war reparations, lifting of all sanctions, release of frozen assets, and recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Iran also offered to dilute some highly enriched uranium and transfer the remainder to a third country, while proposing a 5-year nuclear moratorium — far short of the US demand for 20 years. The US had proposed an end to fighting before starting talks on nuclear issues. The Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed, with Brent crude above $104 per barrel.
Strategic interpretation
The gap between US and Iran positions remains vast: Washington demands nuclear concessions before ending hostilities, while Tehran insists on reparations and sanctions relief as preconditions. Pakistan's mediation role is increasingly strained, and Trump may seek Chinese leverage over Tehran during the Beijing summit. The ceasefire's collapse risks renewed military escalation and further energy price shocks.