Donald Trump stated Iran is negotiating for a deal but fears being killed by its own people and by the U.S., while Tehran rejects proposed ceasefire terms.
Trump on Iranian Fears and Negotiations
Donald Trump asserted that “no one has ever seen anything like what we are doing in the Middle East with Iran.” He claimed Iran is actively negotiating for an agreement but is hesitant to publicly admit it, stating, “They are afraid to say it.”
Trump also suggested a lack of willing successors within the Iranian leadership, noting, “They think they’re going to be killed by their own people. They’re also afraid they’re going to be killed by us.” He recounted a hypothetical scenario where potential leaders decline the position of Supreme Leader.
Iran Rejects U.S. Ceasefire Proposal
Iran’s PressTV reported that Iran has rejected the ceasefire principles proposed by the United States. A high-ranking Iranian security official stated that Iran will end the war when it deems appropriate and its conditions are met, not when “Trump decides to end it.”
Negotiations and Conditions
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi indicated a willingness to negotiate, but only if Iran’s demands are fulfilled. He clarified that contact with mediators and information exchange does not equate to direct negotiations with the United States.
U.S. Presents 15-Point Plan
The United States is reportedly attempting to negotiate through unofficial diplomatic channels. According to the New York Times, the U.S. administration has proposed a 15-point plan to resolve the conflict, addressing Iran’s ballistic missile and nuclear programs, as well as the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The plan was reportedly delivered to Iran via Pakistan but was not well-received. The White House has not commented on the reports, with spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirming only that diplomatic efforts are ongoing while maintaining current military operations.
