Iran warns of surprising response as Trump rejects peace proposal
Tensions in the Middle East escalated further after US President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s response to a proposed peace plan, while Tehran warned the United States and Israel of “surprising options” if hostilities resume.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Tehran remained open to diplomacy but would respond strongly to any renewed aggression.
“We will fight whenever we are forced to fight, but diplomacy will continue whenever possible,” Baghaei said during a press conference, adding that all decisions would be guided by Iran’s national interests.
The remarks came after Trump described Iran’s response to a proposed peace agreement as “totally unacceptable”. Posting on his Truth Social platform, the US President said Tehran’s reply failed to meet expectations and hinted at a tougher American stance going forward.
“I have just read the response… I don’t like it — TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!” Trump wrote, accusing Iran of “playing games” with the United States for decades.
Trump also revealed that he had discussed the matter with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling it a “very nice call” while stressing that negotiations remained under his control.
Meanwhile, Iran warned European nations against intervening in the Strait of Hormuz amid reports of possible naval deployments in the region. Tehran said any foreign military involvement in the Persian Gulf would worsen tensions and drive up global energy prices.
Baghaei also said Iran’s ties with Egypt were based on “mutual respect” after reports claimed Egyptian warplanes helped the UAE intercept Iranian drones. He maintained that foreign intervention in regional affairs undermined stability and trust among neighbouring countries.
The conflict has continued to disrupt global oil markets and shipping routes. According to Reuters, three oil tankers reportedly crossed the Strait of Hormuz with their tracking systems switched off to reduce the risk of attacks. Two of the vessels were carrying nearly two million barrels of Iraqi crude each.
Oil prices surged sharply after Trump’s remarks. Brent crude futures climbed more than 4 per cent to $105.45 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude rose to nearly $100 per barrel.
The crisis has also intensified military tensions across the region. In southern Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed two people and injured five others, while Hezbollah claimed attacks on Israeli troops near the border.
Iranian media also reported the execution of a man accused of spying for the CIA and Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency.
With diplomatic efforts stalled and military rhetoric escalating, concerns are growing over the possibility of a wider regional conflict and its impact on global energy supplies.