Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated again after President Donald Trump suggested that renewed military strikes on Iranian targets remain “a possibility,” even as diplomatic messages continue to pass between both sides.
According to Iranian state-linked media, Tehran has received a response from the United States regarding its latest peace proposal. Iran’s foreign ministry said the reply was delivered through Pakistan and is currently under review.
The US government has not formally confirmed the communication, but Trump reportedly told Israeli media that the proposal was unacceptable in its current form.
Iran’s reported 14-point proposal includes demands for the withdrawal of US forces near its borders, an end to naval restrictions affecting Iranian ports, and a full cessation of hostilities, including Israel’s military operations in Lebanon. It also suggested both sides reach a broader agreement within 30 days.
However, Tehran maintains that it is not engaged in nuclear negotiations at this stage. Iranian officials continue to insist that their nuclear programme is peaceful, despite international concerns over uranium enrichment levels close to weapons-grade.
On Sunday, Trump also announced a new US initiative aimed at assisting ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route that has seen restricted movement since the conflict intensified earlier this year.
He described the initiative, which he called “Project Freedom,” as a protective measure for global shipping, warning that any interference would be met with forceful action.
“For the good of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States, we will guide these ships safely through restricted waterways,” Trump said on social media, without naming specific countries involved.
In earlier remarks, Trump confirmed he had received Iran’s latest proposal but questioned whether it went far enough. Speaking to reporters, he said he had been briefed on the outline but was still awaiting full details.
“I will soon be reviewing the plan,” he said, adding that Iran had not yet “paid a big enough price” for its actions over the years.
When asked directly about the possibility of renewed military strikes inside Iran, Trump responded that it “could happen,” depending on Tehran’s actions.
“If they misbehave… if they do something bad, it’s a possibility,” he said, while adding that the situation was still being assessed.
The remarks come amid continued debate in Washington over the direction of US involvement in the conflict. Some lawmakers have raised concerns about the scope and long-term goals of the operation, urging clearer limits and, in some cases, de-escalation.
Meanwhile, Iran has continued to limit shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, further tightening a critical global energy corridor already affected by months of instability.
As diplomatic exchanges continue and military threats remain on the table, both sides appear locked in a fragile standoff, with no clear indication yet of a breakthrough toward lasting peace.
