Stalemate in Iran conflict as peace proposal rejected

The conflict between the United States and Iran, which began on February 28, has reached a critical impasse after US President Donald Trump rejected Tehran's counter-proposal on Monday. The United States had proposed a cessation of hostilities to open broader negotiations, but Iran’s response demanded an end to the war on all fronts, including Lebanon, alongside the lifting of sanctions and the removal of a ban on Iranian oil sales. Tehran also requested compensation for war damages and emphasized its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump dismissed the proposal as unacceptable and suggested the existing ceasefire was failing. In response, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned of a potential military retaliation. The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz remains in effect, causing global oil prices to rise by more than $4 per barrel. President Trump further announced plans to restart naval escort operations to protect ships transiting the region.