Iran Rejects US 15-Point Peace Plan, Issues Own Demands for War End

Iran Rejects US 15-Point Peace Plan, Issues Own Demands for War End

The Middle East conflict has entered a critical stage as the United States and Iran exchange competing ceasefire proposals while hostilities continue to escalate. US President Donald Trump unveiled a 15-point plan aimed at ending the war that began three weeks ago, alongside Israel, targeting a halt to violence and regional destabilisation. The plan called for the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear facilities at Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow, and demanded strict oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). It also required Tehran to cease support for regional proxy forces and halt funding and arming of allies, while ensuring no future pursuit of nuclear weapons. The White House highlighted the plan as a pathway to stabilising the Strait of Hormuz, reducing tensions in the Gulf, and protecting global energy supplies. According to officials, the proposal reflects Washington’s desire to find an offramp from the war, while mitigating economic fallout from prolonged conflict.

Tehran swiftly rejected the US proposal, describing it as “excessive and unrealistic”. Iranian officials stressed that any cessation of hostilities would occur only on Iran’s own terms. The demands outlined by Iran include the closure of US military bases in the Middle East, a new regime for the Strait of Hormuz allowing Iran to collect transit fees similar to the Suez Canal, guarantees against renewed conflict, an end to Israeli attacks on Hezbollah, lifting of all sanctions, and preservation of Iran’s missile program. A senior Iranian military spokesperson mocked the US efforts, claiming Washington was negotiating with itself and had failed to craft a credible path to peace.

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Meanwhile, the US Defense Department has placed missile production on a wartime footing. Contracts with Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, and Honeywell Aerospace aim to accelerate the manufacture of interceptor missiles, Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), and critical navigation components. The Pentagon cited extensive use of THAAD missile systems and other interceptors in response to Iranian attacks, stressing the need to replenish stocks.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the war in the Middle East is “out of control”, threatening widespread human suffering and economic shocks. He cautioned that the conflict risks regional spillover, urging leaders to avoid a repeat of the Gaza model in Lebanon.

The war has disrupted global oil markets, with energy prices rising amid supply uncertainty. Gulf states, including Qatar, have expressed skepticism over US-led diplomatic initiatives, reflecting a lack of trust in Washington’s ability to mediate effectively. Despite the public rejection, reports indicate that indirect diplomatic communication continues between the US and Iran, suggesting that backchannel negotiations may still be underway to prevent further escalation. Analysts warn that without serious dialogue, the Middle East war could intensify, exacerbating global energy volatility and deepening humanitarian crises.

Iran Rejects US 15-Point Peace Plan, Issues Own Demands for War End