Iran rejects ceasefire with US and puts forward demand
Photo: portrait of Ali Khamenei (Getty Images)
Iran has rejected the proposed ceasefire with the United States and put forward a demand for clear guarantees that hostilities will not resume in the future, states Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, according to TRT Haber.
The channel notes that this was Tehran’s response to the initiative for a pause in hostilities. According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, a ceasefire would allow the other side to "regroup and resume attacks."
"A ceasefire means the possibility of rebuilding forces. No one will agree to that," Baqaei said.
He stressed that Iran is only ready to consider agreements that include clear guarantees to prevent renewed escalation.
Baqaei added that decisions related to national security must be aimed at "fully preventing a new attack."
What preceded this
On the night of April 6, Pakistan delivered a framework peace plan to Iran and the US. Islamabad hoped that the details of the agreement could be finalized the same day.
The plan envisages an immediate cessation of hostilities, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the conclusion of a peace agreement within 15–20 days.
Later, Iran refused to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for a temporary ceasefire. Tehran also stated that Washington is not ready for a permanent ceasefire.
Trump’s ultimatum
As noted, yesterday, US President Donald Trump gave Iran 48 hours to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Over the past day, the American leader has reiterated his call several times and even addressed Iran using profanity, calling them "b*******."
In addition, Trump gave interviews to several media outlets, stating that Iran has until Tuesday, April 7. He noted that if Tehran refuses to restore shipping, the United States could strike the country’s energy infrastructure.
