Trump Rejects Iran Proposal, Insists Nuclear Issue Must Come First

WASHINGTON, April 28: US President Donald Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with Iran’s latest proposal to end the ongoing conflict, as the White House reiterated that Washington will not engage in “media diplomacy” and remains firm on its core demands.

A White House spokeswoman, Olivia Wales, said the United States would not negotiate through public statements or press reports. “The United States will not negotiate through the press — we have been clear about our red lines and the president will only make a deal that’s good for the American people and the world,” she stated.

Her remarks followed reports, including one by The New York Times, that U.S. officials are reviewing a new Iranian proposal focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending hostilities. However, officials indicated that Iran’s leadership has not authorized negotiators to make concessions on its nuclear program, complicating prospects for a broader agreement.

According to Reuters, Trump is unhappy with the proposal because it seeks to delay discussions on Iran’s nuclear activities until after the war ends and maritime disputes in the Gulf are resolved. U.S. officials maintain that nuclear issues must be addressed at the outset of any deal.

The standoff highlights a fundamental divide between the United States and Iran, with Washington insisting that Tehran’s nuclear ambitions remain the central issue in negotiations.

A previous agreement, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, had placed strict limits on Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. However, the accord unraveled after Trump withdrew the United States from the deal during his first term, leading to renewed tensions that continue to shape current negotiations.