Ahead of an expected briefing by United States President Donald Trump on his war with Iran, Tehran dismissed the US’s 15-point plan as “illogical” and “extremely ambitious”, while also hardening its stance. While conveying Iran’s position on the 15-point plan, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei also said that no negotiations can take place under threats.
Esmaeil Baghaei also warned that Iran remains focused on defending the country amid ongoing attacks while diplomacy continues alongside military efforts, Iran International reported.
A State Department spokesman also said a response would be announced, adding that negotiations were “incompatible with ultimatums and threats to commit war crimes.”
Iran’s demands “should not be interpreted as a sign of compromise, but rather as a reflection of its confidence in defending its positions,” he said.
Iran has drafted its response to the proposals communicated through intermediaries and will announce it if necessary, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Monday, according to Iran International.
Tehran has also claimed that the country is not inclined to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as part of a temporary ceasefire. She said she also would not accept deadlines or pressure to reach a deal, a day after Trump gave Tehran a deadline.
Washington was not ready for a permanent ceasefire, Reuters reported.
Donald Trump had earlier threatened to rain “hell” on Tehran if it did not strike a deal by the end of Tuesday to allow traffic to resume through a vital route – the Strait of Hormuz – for global energy supplies.
Meanwhile, sources familiar with the peace proposals told the news agency that both the US and Iran had received a plan – drawn up by Pakistan – to end hostilities, which could come into force on Monday 6.
“All the elements need to be agreed today,” the source said, adding that the initial deal would be structured as a memorandum of understanding that would be completed electronically through Pakistan.
What does the proposal contain?
According to the proposal, the ceasefire should come into force immediately.
A reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is also likely, with 15-20 days to complete a broader settlement.
The agreement, tentatively called the “Islamabad Agreement”, would include a regional framework for the strait with final face-to-face talks in Islamabad.
Asked if the proposal was what Donald Trump would talk about during the press conference, a White House official said: “This is one of many ideas and (Trump) has not signed it. Operation Epic Fury continues.”
