Kumar Bahukhandi
US President Donald Trump. Trump has reportedly rejected Iran’s proposed seven-day ceasefire and told aides that he expects US bombing of Iran to resume after the November midterm elections. Photo: AP/Jacquelyn Martin
ran’s seven-day proposal offered reopening of Strait of Hormuz and resumption of nuclear talks as Washington and Tehran remain at odds
Key Highlights
- Trump reportedly rejects Iran’s proposal for a seven-day ceasefire
- US officials say he expects bombing of Iran could resume after November midterm elections
- Iran offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume nuclear negotiations
- Tehran sought changes including lifting the US blockade of Iranian ports
- Washington and Tehran are reported to remain in indirect contact
Washington: US President Donald Trump has rejected an Iranian proposal for a seven-day ceasefire and has told aides that he expects the United States to resume bombing Iran after the November midterm elections, according to a Wall Street Journal report citing US officials.
The reported decision comes amid continuing efforts to find a diplomatic route out of the conflict. Iran’s proposal envisaged reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resuming negotiations over its nuclear programme in return for measures from Washington, including lifting its blockade of Iranian ports.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said at the United Nations that Tehran had conveyed a concrete seven-day plan to the United States through Qatar. He said the Strait of Hormuz could be reopened and normal maritime passage restored within seven days if the required conditions were met.
Trump Signals Deal Still Possible
The reported rejection of the ceasefire proposal follows Trump’s address to the United Nations General Assembly earlier this week, where he presented Iran with a choice between reaching an agreement and facing further US military action. He also said he believed an agreement could be reached after the November elections.
Despite the report of a possible resumption of bombing, diplomatic channels have not been completely closed. The Wall Street Journal reported that Washington and Tehran continue to communicate through intermediaries, including over nuclear issues.Israeli attacks on Iran began in February, roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies passed through the waterway.
The Wall Street Journal’s account of Trump’s reported plans is based on unnamed US officials. Reuters said it could not immediately independently verify the report.
