Trump Rejects Iran Peace Offer, Citing Uranium and Strait Concerns

On Sunday, Iran sent a reply to a US peace offer transmitted through Pakistan, seeking an end to hostilities and maritime security in the Gulf before discussing nuclear issues. Trump responded on his Truth Social platform, labeling the reply “totally unacceptable” and accusing Tehran of playing games. He reiterated that Iran must first reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt uranium enrichment. A temporary ceasefire began on April 8, but talks have stalled as each side links security concessions to nuclear limits. The United States has maintained a naval blockade on Iranian ports despite the ceasefire, while Iran has restricted traffic through the Strait in response to US and Israeli strikes on February 28. Both sides have also reported incidents of ship seizures and attacks in the Gulf, contributing to a cycle of retaliation.

Trump said, “I don’t like it – TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!” regarding Iran’s counterproposal. Experts estimate Iran holds 440 kilograms of highly enriched uranium, a stockpile the United States wants reduced to zero. Highly enriched uranium refers to uranium enriched to levels suitable for weapons. The Strait of Hormuz moves about one‑fifth of global oil and natural gas exports during peacetime, making its control a strategic leverage point. The 2015 JCPOA allowed Iran to enrich uranium to 3.67 percent, far below weapons‑grade levels, before the US withdrew in 2018.

The rejection raises the risk of renewed naval confrontations in the Gulf, which could disrupt oil shipments and affect global energy prices. Iran’s offer to dilute some of its uranium and transfer the rest to a third country shows willingness to negotiate, but the US demand for a complete enrichment halt remains a major obstacle. Observers will watch whether diplomatic channels through Pakistan or other mediators can revive talks before any military escalation. Analysts note that any prolonged disruption in the Strait could raise crude prices by several dollars per barrel, affecting economies reliant on Gulf oil. Observers should watch whether the United States and Iran will agree on an interim framework that addresses both maritime security and uranium limits within the coming weeks.