US President Donald Trump has reportedly rejected Iran’s latest proposal to resolve the ongoing two-month conflict, dampening hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough in a war that has disrupted global energy supplies, driven inflation, and claimed thousands of lives.
According to a US official briefed on a White House meeting on Monday, Trump was dissatisfied with Tehran’s proposal, which suggests postponing discussions on its nuclear programme until after the conflict ends and maritime disputes in the Gulf are resolved.
The US administration has consistently maintained that nuclear issues must be addressed at the outset of any negotiations.
White House spokesperson Olivia Wales declined to comment directly on the proposal, stating that the US “will not negotiate through the press” and remains firm on its negotiating red lines.
The conflict, which began in February alongside Israel, has intensified geopolitical tensions and strained global markets.
Efforts to revive diplomacy appear to have stalled, particularly after the cancellation of a planned visit to Islamabad by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner. The trip had coincided with shuttle diplomacy efforts by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who held engagements in Pakistan, Oman and Russia.
Araqchi also met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, securing expressions of support from a longstanding ally.
Despite the diplomatic push, both sides remain far apart. Iran’s proposal reportedly outlines a phased approach, beginning with an end to hostilities and guarantees against renewed military action, followed by negotiations over the US naval blockade and control of the Strait of Hormuz. Only later would talks address Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, including its demand for recognition of its right to enrich uranium.
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to disrupt global oil flows. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy supply has dropped sharply, with only a handful of vessels passing through in recent days compared to typical daily volumes exceeding 100 ships.
Market analysts warn that constrained oil flows, rather than political rhetoric, are now the primary driver of rising prices.
Iran has condemned US actions against its oil shipments, accusing Washington of effectively legalising piracy after several tankers were reportedly turned back in recent days.
The standoff has also placed Trump under increasing domestic pressure, with declining approval ratings adding urgency to efforts to bring the conflict to an end.