Washington: Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated sharply after former U.S. President Donald Trump described the fragile ceasefire between the two sides as being “on life support,” while strongly rejecting Tehran’s latest peace proposal and calling it a “piece of garbage.”
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he had received Iran’s response to a U.S.-backed peace framework but dismissed it outright, claiming he “didn’t even finish reading it.” He said the document failed to meet basic expectations and accused Iran of submitting an “unacceptable” counteroffer that undermines ongoing diplomatic efforts.
According to multiple reports, the Iranian proposal included wide-ranging demands such as lifting sanctions, recognition of Iranian sovereignty over key maritime routes like the Strait of Hormuz, compensation for war-related damages, and restrictions on U.S. military presence in the region. Tehran, however, has insisted that its nuclear programme and uranium enrichment are non-negotiable issues.
Trump responded by warning that the ceasefire was now in a dangerously weak state, repeatedly using the phrase “massive life support” to describe its condition. He also reiterated his long-standing position that Iran “cannot be allowed to have a nuclear weapon,” calling the country “very dangerous” and “volatile.”
The ceasefire, which was reportedly brokered earlier through indirect diplomatic channels, has already faced weeks of strain amid rising regional tensions, including maritime security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz and renewed sanctions pressure. Analysts say the latest exchange has significantly reduced hopes for a durable peace agreement.
International reactions have been mixed, with some observers warning that the breakdown in talks could lead to renewed escalation in the region. Energy markets have also shown sensitivity to the developments, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global oil transit route.
Diplomatic sources indicate that backchannel discussions are still ongoing, though trust between both sides appears deeply strained. While no formal withdrawal from the ceasefire has been announced, officials on both sides have acknowledged that the situation remains highly unstable.
With rhetoric intensifying and negotiations stalled, the future of the ceasefire now appears uncertain, with analysts warning that any further breakdown in communication could push the region closer to renewed conflict.
