Iran responded to President Trump’s threats with warnings of retaliatory strikes and demands for reparations, rejecting calls for negotiation.
Iran Rejects U.S. Negotiations, Warns of Regional Consequences
A high-ranking Iranian official stated that no negotiations are underway with the U.S., which seeks Iran’s surrender to pressure. Washington reportedly demands the opening of the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for “empty promises.”
The source warned that an attack on Iranian nuclear facilities would plunge the entire region, including Saudi Arabia, into complete darkness.
Strait of Bab al-Mandab and Regional Shipping
Traffic along the shipping lane from Asia to Europe is currently restricted due to attacks by Houthi rebels allied with Tehran. The Bab al-Mandab Strait connects the Arabian Sea to the Red Sea, serving as a crucial route via the Suez Canal to Europe.
Iranian Military Warnings and Potential Retaliation
On April 7th, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened action against infrastructure if the U.S. crosses “red lines,” potentially depriving the U.S. and its allies of regional oil and gas supplies for years.
The military announced that previous restraint shown in the spirit of good neighborliness has now been lifted.
The Corps emphasized that any response to U.S. “terrorist” forces crossing red lines would extend beyond the region.
Trump’s Threat of Total Destruction
President Trump stated on Monday that Iran could be destroyed in a single night, issuing an ultimatum for the opening of the Strait of Hormuz by 20:00 EDT on Tuesday (02:00 Wednesday in Poland).
Trump claimed the U.S. could destroy all Iranian bridges and power plants within four hours.
Iran’s Conditions for “Lasting Peace”
Iran has rejected proposals for a temporary ceasefire and presented preconditions for talks on “lasting peace,” according to Reuters sources.
Iran demands the immediate cessation of attacks by the U.S. and Israel, guarantees against their resumption, and compensation for damages incurred during the conflict.
Tehran also seeks the imposition of transit fees for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global route for oil and gas, with rates varying based on vessel type and cargo.
Tehran’s 10-Point Plan
Following the rejection of a U.S. peace plan delivered via Pakistan, Iran proposed a 10-point plan for conflict resolution, including demands for a halt to U.S. and Israeli attacks, the lifting of sanctions, and the implementation of transit fees for ships.
