Iran demands war reparations and sanctions relief as U.S. dismisses counteroffer, keeping Strait of Hormuz tensions elevated.
U.S. President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s counterproposal to end the 10-week Middle East conflict, calling it “totally unacceptable” in a social media post. The move prolongs a standoff that has disrupted global energy markets and tightened supply via the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s response demanded war reparations, full control of the Strait of Hormuz, an end to sanctions, and the release of frozen assets. Tehran framed the U.S. proposal as a demand for surrender, while President Masoud Pezeshkian vowed defiance, stating Iran would “never bow.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the conflict persists due to Iran’s continued uranium enrichment and support for regional proxies. The Wall Street Journal reported Iran refused U.S. demands to curb its nuclear program and enriched uranium stockpile.