Trump Open to New Peace Plan for Iran But Doubts Its Viability
US President Donald Trump indicated on Saturday that he would consider a new peace plan regarding Iran; however, he expressed skepticism about its feasibility, leaving the door open for potential military action against the nation.
Stalled Negotiations Amid Ongoing Conflict
Negotiations to resolve the conflict between the two countries have stagnated following a ceasefire implemented on April 8. The initial round of peace talks aimed at concluding the conflict, now dragging on for more than two months, ended unsuccessfully in Pakistan.
Iran Proposes Comprehensive Peace Framework
The discouraging outlook was underscored by reports from Iran’s Tasnim and Fars news agencies, which stated that the Iranian government submitted a 14-point proposal to the mediation efforts in Islamabad. This plan includes provisions to end hostilities and establish a new regulatory framework for the crucial Strait of Hormuz, as noted by Tasnim.
Trump Questions Iran’s Commitment
In a message shared on his Truth social platform, Trump conveyed skepticism about the proposal’s acceptability, citing Iran’s historical actions. He remarked, “Iran has not yet paid the full price for what it has done to humanity and the world for the past 47 years.”
Iranian Military Leaders Warn of Possible Conflict
During a brief interaction with reporters in West Palm Beach, Florida, Trump refrained from specifying the conditions that might lead to renewed military action against Iran. He noted, “If they cheat, if they do something wrong, but for now we’ll see. But it’s certainly possible it could happen.” This sentiment was echoed by Mohammad Jafar al-Asadi, head of Iran’s military Central Command, who stated that “a new conflict between Iran and the United States is likely” and accused the US of failing to honor its commitments.
Iran’s Diplomatic Stance amid Rising Tensions
In Tehran, Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Ghalibabadi urged US diplomats to decide between pursuing diplomacy or maintaining a confrontational approach, asserting that Iran is prepared for either path. Reports have also emerged suggesting that Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is advocating for the revival of discussions on Iran’s nuclear program, with Iran’s UN mission describing US actions as hypocritical in light of its own nuclear arsenal.
Economic Impact and Control over Strategic Waters
The ongoing conflict has allowed Iran to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz, significantly disrupting vital oil, gas, and fertilizer flows to the global market, while the US has countered with a blockade on Iranian ports. Oil prices have risen by approximately 50% compared to pre-war levels. Legislative discussions in Iran indicate that under a proposed bill regarding the management of the waterway, 30% of collected fees would be allocated to military infrastructure, with the remainder earmarked for economic development. Ali Nikzad, deputy speaker of Iran’s parliament, emphasized that controlling this vital strait is more critical than nuclear capabilities.
Continued Violence Despite Ceasefire
Amid these geopolitical tensions, hostilities continued in Lebanon, where Israel has carried out airstrikes despite a separate ceasefire with the Iranian-allied group Hezbollah. The Israeli military reported targeting numerous Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, following evacuation orders issued for nine villages. The Lebanese National News Agency reported casualties as a result of these strikes.
Domestic Concerns in Iran Amid Ongoing War
In Washington, lawmakers are intensely debating whether President Trump has violated congressional deadlines regarding war authorization. While administration officials claim the ceasefire entails a 60-day period requiring parliamentary consent, opposition Democrats dispute this assertion. Meanwhile, the economic repercussions of the conflict are intensifying in Iran, with oil exports declining and inflation skyrocketing beyond 50%. A Tehran resident lamented the fragile state of their economy, stating, “Everyone is trying to hold on… but it’s falling apart,” indicating that the full impact of the war is yet to be felt by numerous citizens.
