TEHRAN: Iran has reportedly rejected a United States-backed ceasefire proposal delivered through Iraqi mediation, according to a report by The New York Times, citing Iranian and Iraqi officials.
The report states that Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi traveled to Tehran with the proposal shortly after meeting US President Donald Trump at the White House earlier this month. The initiative was aimed at easing tensions between Washington and Tehran amid the ongoing regional crisis.
However, Iranian officials reportedly informed Iraqi mediators that Tehran was not interested in accepting what they described as a “temporary deal.” According to the report, Iran insists that any agreement must address the long-term status of the Strait of Hormuz, which remains one of the most contentious issues in the negotiations.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes, handling a significant share of global oil shipments. Its future status has become a central issue in the broader dispute between Iran and the United States.
In a statement, the office of Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi confirmed that he visited Tehran to encourage dialogue and promote regional peace. The Iraqi leader also reiterated Baghdad’s commitment not to allow Iraqi territory to be used for military attacks against Iran.
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The reported rejection underscores the continuing diplomatic deadlock, with both sides maintaining firm positions despite international efforts to prevent further escalation in the region.
