Iran Rejects US 48-Hour Ceasefire Amid Middle-East Tensions

[Mahmud]

Iran has refused a 48-hour ceasefire proposal offered by the United States, according to reports. This decision shows Tehran's reluctance to accept a short-term truce, even as international pressure grows to reduce hostilities in the region.

The semi-official Fars news agency said the offer was delivered through an unnamed intermediary country on Wednesday. A source reported that Iran turned down the proposal, reflecting its cautious approach to temporary agreements amid ongoing conflict.

United States President Donald Trump claimed that Iran had asked for a ceasefire, but he emphasized that Washington would only consider it if the Strait of Hormuz is fully reopened to global shipping. Trump shared this in a statement on his Truth Social platform.

In his post, Trump described Iran's new leadership as "much less radicalized and far more intelligent than predecessors" and said the U.S. would continue military action until the Hormuz Strait is safe for international passage. This reflects the sharp differences in narratives between Washington and Tehran.

Iran, however, has indicated a conditional willingness to end hostilities. President Masoud Pezeshkian said that Tehran would agree to a ceasefire only if firm guarantees are in place to prevent future conflict, stressing the importance of long-term security assurances.

Following these developments, Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa warned of the volatile situation and urged restraint. With Tehran rejecting a short-term ceasefire, diplomatic efforts face significant challenges, while the world watches closely due to the potential threat to global oil shipping and regional stability.


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