Washington: US President Donald Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with a fresh proposal put forward by Iran to de-escalate tensions, as the absence of any reference to Tehran’s nuclear programme emerged as a major sticking point in ongoing efforts to end the conflict.
The proposal, conveyed to Washington through Pakistan, reportedly offers to ease restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the lifting of US sanctions and a broader end to hostilities. However, Iran has indicated that discussions on its nuclear programme should be deferred to a later stage, prioritising an immediate ceasefire and reduction in tensions.
This position has not found favour with the US administration. Officials indicated that Washington is unwilling to engage in any agreement that does not directly address concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has reinforced that any deal acceptable to the United States must include safeguards to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
The divergence over the nuclear issue continues to complicate diplomatic efforts, even as both sides signal openness to extending the current temporary ceasefire. Iran has suggested that it is prepared to move towards a broader end to hostilities if immediate tensions are reduced, but its insistence on postponing nuclear negotiations remains a key obstacle.
At the same time, Trump’s approach to engagement reflects a preference for direct communication rather than mediated talks, with the US side indicating that Iran should initiate contact without relying on intermediaries. This stance adds another layer of difficulty to already-strained negotiations.
The Gulf region remains volatile. The latest developments show that disagreements, especially over nuclear policy, run deep. These differences are preventing meaningful progress. As a result, the chances of a comprehensive resolution remain uncertain despite ongoing diplomatic signals from both sides.