Iran says no to ceasefire, seeks guarantees against attacks
US President Donald Trump on Monday said he is “not at all” concerned about war crimes as he threatened the destruction of Iran’s bridges and power plants, promising strikes on civilian infrastructure if Tehran does not capitulate by 8 pm Eastern Time Tuesday.
Iran has dismissed a US-backed ceasefire proposal relayed via Pakistan, instead outlining a sweeping 10-point plan that demands a permanent end to regional hostilities, the lifting of sanctions, and recognition of its strategic and nuclear rights — raising the stakes ahead of a looming US deadline and threats of further military action.
Tehran has formally rejected a ceasefire proposal put forward by Washington and communicated through Islamabad, according to state-run media, signaling its unwillingness to accept a temporary pause in fighting.
“We won’t merely accept a ceasefire,” said Mojtaba Ferdousi Pour, head of Iran’s diplomatic mission in Cairo. “We only accept an end of the war with guarantees that we won’t be attacked again,” he added
A White House official described the Pakistan-mediated proposal as “one of many ideas” under review, noting that Trump has not approved it. Military operations in the region are ongoing, the official added.
Iran’s response, structured as a 10-clause framework, goes significantly beyond the terms of an immediate truce. Central to its position is the demand for a permanent end to conflict — not only involving Iran but also extending to flashpoints in Lebanon and Gaza — along with binding guarantees to prevent any future escalation.
The proposal also calls for recognition of Iran’s authority over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global transit route, including the right to regulate maritime traffic and impose transit fees. Additionally, Tehran is pressing for the full removal of international economic sanctions and compensation for war-related damages that have strained its economy.
Iran further seeks formal acknowledgment of its right to enrich uranium under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), reiterating its longstanding stance that its nuclear program is civilian in nature.The response comes amid heightened tensions, as US President Donald Trump weighs next steps ahead of a self-imposed deadline linked to Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking to reporters, Trump suggested Washington retains multiple options, including military escalation, while emphasising his objective to “finish it up.” He also repeated US concerns over Iran’s nuclear ambitions — claims Tehran continues to deny.
Trump, in a Monday press conference, doubled down on his hardline stance against Iran, insisting the country must not acquire nuclear weapons. “They’re animals and we have to stop them — and we can’t let them have a nuclear weapon. Very simple,” Trump said.When asked about extending the deadline given to Iran, he added, “I gave them a chance and I hope they take the chance. If they don’t, it’s trouble.”Trump confirmed that envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are engaged in talks with Tehran, and Vice President JD Vance may also join the discussions. Addressing critics at home, the president dismissed Americans opposed to military action as “foolish,” emphasising, “the war is about one thing — Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.”
