The United States has presented Iran with a sweeping 15-point proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, including demands to scale back its nuclear programme and guarantee safe passage through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Tehran, however, has rejected the plan, describing the conditions as “excessive” and insisting it will decide when the war ends. Iranian officials said the proposal was “not positive,” signalling deep resistance to Washington’s terms.
Despite the rejection, the White House maintains that negotiations are still ongoing. Officials say the US is “very close” to achieving its core military objectives, even as President Donald Trump warns he is prepared to “unleash hell” if Iran refuses to concede.
Tensions continue to rise on multiple fronts. The US has deployed over 1,000 additional troops from an airborne assault unit to the Middle East, even as talk of a potential peace deal lingers. Iran has responded with threats of a “crushing attack” should any US aircraft carrier move within missile range.
Meanwhile, hostilities between Iran and Israel show no signs of easing. Both sides continue to exchange strikes, with Tehran also targeting US-aligned Gulf states such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.
In Lebanon, Israeli forces have intensified operations against Hezbollah, with plans to seize parts of southern territory to establish a “defensive buffer” against the Iran-backed group.
On the diplomatic front, confusion persists. While Washington insists talks are ongoing, Iranian officials deny direct negotiations, mocking the US as “negotiating with itself.” Pakistan has emerged as a key intermediary, relaying messages between both sides and offering to host peace talks.
As the conflict enters its fourth week, the human cost continues to climb, with more than 2,700 people reported killed across the region, underscoring the urgency—and difficulty—of reaching a ceasefire.
