TEHRAN/ WEST PALM BEACH – The fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran faces its greatest test yet as President Donald Trump expressed deep doubts over a newly submitted 14-point peace proposal from Tehran.
While Iranian officials warn that a return to open warfare is "likely," the U.S. continues to maintain a punishing naval blockade that has reportedly stripped Iran of billions in oil revenue.
A Comprehensive Demand for Peace
The proposal, facilitated by Pakistan, outlines a rigorous set of conditions intended to end the conflict that erupted six weeks ago. According to Iranian state media, the plan includes:
Complete U.S. Withdrawal: The removal of American military forces from regions bordering Iran.
Economic Relief: An immediate end to the naval blockade and the unfreezing of Iranian assets.
Regional De-escalation: A cessation of hostilities "on all fronts," including the conflict in Lebanon.
Waterway Management: A new legal framework for the Strait of Hormuz, with Tehran proposing to collect tolls to fund its military and economy.
"A Very Profitable Business"
President Trump, reviewing the plan from Florida, suggested that Iran has not yet "paid a big enough price" to warrant such a deal.
The Pentagon estimates that the blockade has prevented the delivery of 53 million barrels of oil, resulting in a $4.8 billion loss for Tehran. Despite the truce, the U.S. insists the blockade will remain until a permanent agreement—specifically addressing Iran's nuclear and missile programs—is reached.
The Region Braces for Sunday
Tensions are expected to peak on Sunday as political and military leaders convene:
Jerusalem: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called a security cabinet meeting to prepare for a potential collapse of the talks.
The Arabian Sea: Admiral Brad Cooper, head of CENTCOM, is currently stationed aboard the USS Tripoli to oversee military readiness.
Tehran: Senior military figures have placed the Revolutionary Guard on standby, stating they are prepared for both "the path of diplomacy or the continuation of a confrontational approach".
| Stakeholder | Current Stance |
| U.S. (Trump) | Reviewing the plan but "not satisfied"; maintaining the blockade. |
| Iran (IRGC) | Warning of "likely" war if the blockade is not lifted. |
| Israel | Bracing for a collapse of negotiations as early as next week. |
| Pakistan | Serving as the sole mediator for the 14-point framework. |
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