Iran Rejects US Ceasefire Offer Delivered by Iraqi PM Amid Rising Tensions

Iran has declined a ceasefire proposal from US President Donald Trump, which was conveyed to Tehran by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaydi, according to Iranian and Iraqi sources speaking to The New York Times. The failed mediation attempt occurred as Trump threatened to escalate the conflict by targeting Iran's critical infrastructure. The Iraqi PM's visit followed his recent meeting with Trump at the White House. Iranian officials stated that the ceasefire offer was the only one presented but rejected it because it did not resolve control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that the issue lies with US policy rather than a lack of mediators. Iranian military sources warned that if Washington attacks Tehran or vital infrastructure, Iran would expand the conflict regionally, including strikes on Tel Aviv and efforts to close the Bab al-Mandab Strait. Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported the conclusion of 13 consecutive nights of strikes on Iranian military targets, including command centers, drone storage, communication networks, coastal monitoring sites, and naval capabilities, aiming to reduce threats to civilian maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

CENTCOM confirmed that international waterways remain open despite recent Iranian Revolutionary Guard attacks, with commercial vessels continuing operations under US military protection. Over 50,000 US troops are currently deployed across the Middle East. President Trump declared on social media that any damage to ships or cargo would be compensated by Iranian funds held by the US, warning that such damages could be substantial but justified.

In Israel, authorities are preparing for potential Iranian retaliatory fire and escalation as early as the coming weekend. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to hold a security meeting, while some mayors have opened public bomb shelters despite no changes in Home Front Command guidelines. Trump indicated he is close to deciding on a "massive" military strike, stating Israel would join the campaign if requested. Israeli defense officials noted that Iran's ballistic missile forces are now ready to launch attacks on Israel almost immediately in a war scenario, with the Israeli Air Force tasked with rapid strikes on missile batteries. Defense Minister Benny Gantz held consultations with top military leaders, affirming readiness for all scenarios and warning that any Iranian attack on Israel would be met with a crushing response.