A high-ranking diplomatic source confirmed that Iran has rejected a 15-point ceasefire plan offered by the United States to end the ongoing US-Israeli war on the country. Describing the proposal as “extremely maximalist and unreasonable,” the source told Al Jazeera that the plan was misleading in its presentation and “not beautiful, even on paper.”
Despite claims by US President Donald Trump that negotiations were underway, Iran has maintained that no direct talks with Washington have taken place since the conflict began on February 28. Messages have been exchanged through mediators, including Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkiye, but Tehran insists these do not constitute formal negotiations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that Iran seeks a permanent end to hostilities, demands reparations for damages, and is not seeking war.
The conflict has seen missile and drone attacks across the Middle East, including strikes on critical Gulf oil facilities, and has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, affecting global energy markets. Meanwhile, the US has reinforced its military presence in the region, with the White House warning that it is prepared to escalate operations if Iran does not accept the “current reality.”
Mediators are pushing for in-person talks in Pakistan, with both Egypt and Turkiye offering support to facilitate dialogue and reduce tensions. Iran has outlined its own five-point plan, including ending hostilities, ensuring sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, and securing reparations.
This ongoing standoff leaves diplomatic efforts in a delicate balance amid rising regional and global pressures.
