Iran rejected fresh proposals from the United States conveyed through regional intermediaries following high-level diplomatic engagements in Islamabad.
According to Tehran, the proposals emerged after a meeting involving the foreign ministers of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey, aimed at identifying pathways for de-escalation in the ongoing conflict.
However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei dismissed the US proposals as “unrealistic, illogical and excessive,” signaling Tehran’s firm rejection of the diplomatic overtures.
“Our position is clear. We are under military aggression. Therefore, all our efforts and strength are focused on defending ourselves,” Baghaei said during a press conference.
Meanwhile, the remarks underscore Iran’s hardened stance following the Islamabad initiative, which sought to position regional powers as mediators between Tehran and Washington.
Shortly afterward, US President Donald Trump stated that Washington remains engaged in talks with what he described as a “more reasonable regime,” expressing cautious optimism about a potential resolution.
At the same time, Trump issued a strong warning regarding the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route. He cautioned that failure to secure an agreement—or to reopen the waterway—could lead to a major escalation.
Furthermore, Trump warned that such escalation might include strikes on Iran’s key infrastructure, including power plants, oil facilities, Kharg Island and desalination sites.
The exchange highlights rising tensions despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, with both sides maintaining firm positions as the risk of broader conflict persists.
