Middle East crisis live: Trump rejects Iran response to US peace proposal as Tehran warns of new attacks

The US is awaiting Iran's response to proposals for an interim ceasefire deal, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This comes amid heightened tensions and clashes in the Strait of Hormuz, with the US military reporting firing on two Iranian-flagged tankers attempting to violate an American blockade. Iran, meanwhile, accuses the US of breaching the fragile ceasefire. Diplomatic efforts continue, with Pakistan relaying a US memorandum to Iran as a potential basis for a more solid agreement. Both nations are testing each other's resolve, with Iran highlighting its missile capabilities as a negotiation tactic while the US aims to restrict them.

US forces engaged Iranian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz after what US Central Command described as "unprovoked" attacks involving missiles, drones, and small boats. The US military responded by targeting Iranian missile and drone launch sites and command locations, stating they do not seek escalation but are prepared to defend forces. President Trump claimed significant damage was inflicted on Iranian attackers and reiterated a warning regarding a peace deal. This incident occurs amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts, with the US reportedly nearing a memorandum of understanding with Iran, though Iranian officials have expressed skepticism about the proposal. Both nations have previously threatened escalation if their conditions for a peace agreement are not met.

The United States and Iran have exchanged fire in the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about the fragile ceasefire in place since April 8. President Trump stated that three US Navy destroyers were attacked while transiting the strait but sustained no damage, while Iran claimed to have struck US vessels in retaliation for alleged US attacks on an Iranian oil tanker and civilian areas. The incident occurred as Washington awaits Iran's response to proposals aimed at ending the war, which began in late February with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global oil and LNG shipping route, and the renewed hostilities could further disrupt these supplies.

Approximately 20,000 seafarers are stranded in the Gulf, primarily at an Iranian port, due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This situation began around February 28, following the US launching "Operation Epic Fury" and Iran's subsequent retaliation. The Strait, a vital shipping route for oil and gas, has been effectively shut down, halting maritime traffic despite a ceasefire announced on April 7. Seafarers like Indian national Anish are facing challenges including limited food and water, and difficulties returning home due to unpaid salaries and issues with agents. Recurrent attacks in the waterway continue to prevent the resumption of normal shipping operations.

The US military announced it conducted retaliatory strikes against Iran on Thursday, targeting Iranian military facilities. These strikes were described as a response to what the US termed "unprovoked hostilities" by Tehran, specifically citing attacks on US forces. Earlier, Iran had stated that the US violated a ceasefire by targeting an Iranian oil tanker and another ship near the Strait of Hormuz, as well as striking civilian areas. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) indicated that the operations eliminated inbound threats and hit sites responsible for attacking US forces, including missile and drone launch locations, command and control centers, and surveillance nodes.

Gulf states, alongside the United States, are urging United Nations Security Council action to ensure safety and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. A draft resolution demands Iran halt attacks on shipping, disclose mine locations, and cease imposing illegal tolls. Diplomats from Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE emphasized the critical importance of the strait for global energy security and economic stability. The resolution also calls for Iran to facilitate UN efforts to establish a humanitarian corridor for aid passage. This push comes amidst ongoing conflict between Iran and the US, which has severely disrupted traffic through the vital waterway and impacted regional energy exports.

Iran is reviewing a US proposal aimed at ending the ongoing war and resolving the global energy crisis caused by the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal, reportedly a 14-point document, would require Iran to halt uranium enrichment for at least 12 years and not develop nuclear weapons. In return, the US would lift sanctions, release frozen Iranian assets, and both nations would reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days of an agreement. US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about reaching a deal, stating Iran desires an agreement. US negotiators, including envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are leading the talks. If preliminary agreement is reached, it would trigger 30 days of detailed negotiations for a full accord.

Iran has mocked Donald Trump's "Project Freedom," a plan to open the Strait of Hormuz, after it was abruptly suspended. The operation reportedly failed because Saudi Arabia denied the US military access to its bases and airspace. This decision may have stemmed from Riyadh not being consulted beforehand or following an Iranian attack on oil facilities in Fujairah, which highlighted a perceived lack of US protection for its allies. Despite Trump's claims of a peace deal opportunity, the plan's failure left commercial shipping largely unaffected. Iran is now reviewing a US proposal with 14 points, which it views as an American wishlist, while Iran's own 14-point plan was previously rejected by the US.

US President Donald Trump has announced a pause in the US military's "Project Freedom" operation to open the Strait of Hormuz. This decision comes amid reported progress in talks between the US and Iran, with Trump citing "great progress" towards a "complete and final agreement." The operation is temporarily suspended to allow for the finalization of potential terms with Tehran. However, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Iran cannot submit to US "unilateral demands," characterizing the US approach as "maximum pressure." The US Defense Secretary confirmed that a ceasefire with Iran remains in effect despite heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

President Trump expressed optimism about a potential peace deal with Iran, though he acknowledged past difficulties and indicated it was unlikely US envoys would attend a second round of talks in Islamabad. Reports suggested a preliminary 14-point memorandum was being considered to end hostilities, unblock the Strait of Hormuz, lift sanctions, and curb Iran's nuclear program. However, skepticism exists among some US officials and Iranian parliamentarians, who view the reported points as a US "wish list." Experts caution that even an initial agreement might not resolve complex issues, citing the lengthy negotiations required for previous nuclear deals. Trump has previously claimed Iran agreed to terms, which Tehran denied.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Beijing on Wednesday. During their meeting, Wang Yi called for the swift reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that the international community shares a common concern for restoring normal and safe passage through the vital waterway. China expressed hope that the parties involved would promptly address these strong international calls. The meeting focused on the importance of maintaining open shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz.

President Trump has announced a pause to "Project Freedom," a plan related to the Strait of Hormuz, just one day after its announcement. Senator Marco Rubio stated that the US has achieved its objectives in the operation against Iran, suggesting the offensive is now over. This development comes as Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, travels to China. Trump indicated he hopes to finalize a deal with Iran, leading to the temporary halt of the initiative. The price of Brent crude has remained stable around $108 a barrel since the announcement, while jet fuel prices have doubled since the conflict began.

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday a temporary pause of "Project Freedom," a US military operation to facilitate ship movement through the Strait of Hormuz. This decision, made at the request of Pakistan and other nations, is intended to allow for the finalization of a potential agreement with Iran. The pause comes amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf, following US military actions against Iranian boats and drone attacks on commercial vessels. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that US offensive operations have concluded but warned Iran must still face consequences for its actions in the strait. Iran has not yet commented on the announcement.

President Trump's foreign policy regarding Iran has seen rapid shifts in recent days. Initially, he suggested Iran had not faced sufficient consequences, then proposed "Project Freedom" as a humanitarian effort to ease tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. However, by Wednesday, Trump announced significant progress towards a complete agreement, pausing Project Freedom to allow for negotiations. These policy changes reflect the administration's struggle with Iran's capabilities, including its ability to disrupt shipping and its nuclear program, within a complex geopolitical situation. Reports indicate a potential memorandum of understanding with Pakistan as a mediator, aiming to end blockades and initiate talks on Iran's nuclear program, sanctions, and frozen assets.

President Donald Trump has issued an ultimatum to Iran, demanding they accept a deal to end the Middle East war or face intensified US bombing. This announcement follows reports that the US and Iran are nearing a memorandum of understanding to resolve the conflict. Trump stated that if Iran agrees to terms, the military operation, referred to as "Epic Fury," will cease. However, if they refuse, bombing will resume at a significantly higher level. The US also recently paused a naval effort to guide ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing requests from mediators like Pakistan, while maintaining a blockade of Iranian ports to pressure Tehran.

Iran is reportedly considering a US proposal aimed at ending the current conflict, according to an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson. While Iran reviews the proposal, a parliamentary official warned of a "harsh and regret-inducing response" if the US does not concede. Former President Trump also threatened intensified bombing if a deal isn't reached, while claiming Iran has agreed to forgo nuclear weapons. The US previously stated its offensive operation had concluded after achieving objectives. The conflict has significantly impacted the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, with a ceasefire in place since early April, though maritime traffic remains limited.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the conclusion of "Operation Epic Fury," a US-Israeli military campaign against Iran that began on February 28th, stating its objectives were met and the US now favors peace. Simultaneously, President Donald Trump announced a pause to "Project Freedom," a US military operation escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress in talks with Iran and requests from Pakistan. Experts suggest these developments, particularly the pause in "Project Freedom," could signal a potential end to the conflict. Diplomatic efforts, including talks mediated by Pakistan, are ongoing to secure a comprehensive agreement between the US and Iran, with Iran seeking guarantees of a permanent end to hostilities.

On day 67 of escalating tensions, the UAE reported intercepting Iranian missiles and a suspected drone attack that caused a fire at an oil facility in Fujairah. Iran has not officially commented, but other Gulf nations and the EU condemned the suspected strike. This incident occurs amidst heightened US-Iran friction, with President Trump warning of severe retaliation if US Navy ships are targeted in the Strait of Hormuz. The US military stated it sank six Iranian boats attempting to disrupt shipping in the Strait, a claim Iran denies, asserting civilian vessels were targeted and resulted in civilian casualties. Iran maintains its right to manage the Strait, while diplomatic efforts suggest a long road to resolution.

A month-old ceasefire between the US and Iran is under strain following renewed hostilities. Iran reportedly launched missiles at the United Arab Emirates for the second time in 48 hours, while US naval forces are escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the truce remains intact despite increased violence, though Iran's parliament speaker accused the US of breaching the ceasefire. The conflict, triggered by an Israeli strike on Iran's supreme leader, has led to significant economic disruption, with hundreds of ships stranded and oil prices spiking globally. Both nations appear to believe they are nearing victory, contributing to the stalemate.

A drone attack from Iran struck a key oil facility in Fujairah, UAE, causing a large fire and injuring three Indian nationals. This incident followed the UAE's interception of missiles launched from Iran and reports of a tanker affiliated with its state-owned oil company being hit in the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE described the attacks as a "dangerous escalation," though an unnamed Iranian official denied targeting the UAE. Simultaneously, the US reported its navy destroyers and merchant ships sailed through the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran claimed to have fired warning shots at a US warship, which Washington denied. Later, the US stated it had intercepted seven Iranian fast boats in the strait, a claim Iran denied. These events occur amidst ongoing tensions and a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route.

President Donald Trump stated that China has not challenged the US regarding the Iran war, emphasizing his strong relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of their upcoming summit in Beijing on May 14-15. Trump suggested Xi would not challenge him due to their personal rapport. Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route now effectively closed due to the conflict, are expected to be discussed. Trump highlighted China's reliance on oil from the Strait of Hormuz and offered to redirect Chinese oil shipments to US ports like Texas and Louisiana. This meeting was rescheduled from its original March date following US and Israeli attacks on Iran.

Iran has released a map expanding its declared maritime control beyond the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial chokepoint for global oil trade. This move follows US efforts to reopen the strait, which has been largely closed since a conflict began in late February. The announcement coincides with drone and missile attacks in the UAE, which the UAE attributes to Iran, though Tehran has not officially confirmed responsibility. Analysts suggest Iran views control of the Strait of Hormuz as essential leverage in its ongoing conflict with the US and Israel. This strategic importance means Iran is unlikely to relinquish its influence over the waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz standoff, triggered by escalating tensions between the US and Iran, poses a significant risk of renewed conflict with global economic repercussions. Iran's actions, including threats to close the strait, have already led to shortages of oil, gas, helium, and fertilizer, impacting millions worldwide and potentially causing hunger in vulnerable nations. President Trump's complex and evolving strategy, including attempts to influence oil prices and military escorts through the strait, has left the US in a strategic bind due to Iran's resilience. Iran appears to be targeting the UAE among its Gulf neighbors, prompting the UAE to strengthen its alliances with the US and Israel, with Israel deploying an Iron Dome system and soldiers to the UAE.

A U.S.-backed proposal, "ARAM Express," aims to build a network of overland energy pipelines to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative, a collaboration between the United States and Gulf partners, seeks to create multiple export routes for oil, gas, and petrochemicals westward to the Red Sea and Mediterranean, and south towards the Arabian Sea. The plan is gaining traction amid escalating tensions with Iran, which has threatened shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which approximately one-third of global seaborne oil currently flows. The proposal envisions international participation from European and Asian buyers seeking supply resilience. This effort complements U.S. "Project Freedom," which aims to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait.

The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting 15 missiles and four drones fired from Iran, marking the first UAE targeting since an April 8 ceasefire. One drone attack caused a fire at a Fujairah petroleum zone, injuring three Indian nationals, while an empty crude oil tanker was also attacked near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has denied the accusations. Several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, condemned the attacks, denouncing them as a threat to regional security and a violation of UAE sovereignty. Germany, the UK, and Canada urged Iran to return to talks.

Tensions are escalating in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran warns it will attack US forces if they interfere with Iranian operations there. This comes after President Trump stated the US Navy would "guide" stranded ships through the strait, asserting that any interference would be "dealt with forcefully." The Iranian military has vowed a "harsh response" to any threats. Meanwhile, the IDF has launched airstrikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in southern Lebanon, following evacuation warnings for four villages. A ceasefire in Lebanon, initiated on April 17th at the US's request, aimed to prevent disruption to peace talks with Iran.

US President Donald Trump has launched "Project Freedom," a naval mission to escort stranded ships through the Strait of Hormuz, with operations commencing imminently. Iran has responded by warning that any US intervention in the strait will be viewed as a violation of the existing ceasefire. This development follows Trump's announcement of the initiative to aid vessels facing difficulties in the strategic waterway. The Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi articulated this stance, indicating a potential escalation of tensions. The mission's immediate start suggests a rapid response to the situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

On day 66 of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump announced "Project Freedom," a naval mission to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively blockaded. This action follows Iran's claim to have received a US response to its peace proposal, which Trump had previously deemed unacceptable. Iran's military warned that any US interference in the strait would be considered a violation of the ceasefire and result in an attack. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue, with Pakistan discussing regional stability and NATO allies assuring increased support for the US. Australia and Japan are also enhancing cooperation due to trade disruptions caused by the conflict.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz is spearheading a new UN Security Council resolution aimed at stopping Iran from mining the Strait of Hormuz. This diplomatic effort seeks international backing for the ongoing U.S. maritime operation, Project Freedom, which is designed to secure commercial shipping through the critical global trade route. The resolution intends to hold Iran accountable for violating international law by laying sea mines, demanding they cease this activity, disclose mine locations, and cooperate with the UN to establish humanitarian corridors. This initiative follows recent U.S. military actions to protect vessels threatened by Iranian forces in the strait. The resolution is being developed in cooperation with Bahrain and GCC countries.

The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones originating from Iran. The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed the interception of three missiles and a fourth falling into the sea, with no immediate reports of casualties. Separately, an Iranian drone reportedly caused a fire at an oil facility in Fujairah, injuring three Indian citizens. These incidents occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf, particularly concerning blockades in the Strait of Hormuz and failed ceasefire extension efforts. While a senior Iranian military official denied plans to target the UAE, the drone attack broke a period of relative calm following a US-Tehran ceasefire.

Iran has warned the United States Navy to stay out of the Strait of Hormuz after President Trump announced "Project Freedom," a US initiative to guide stranded ships through the waterway. Iran's military stated that US forces will be attacked if they enter the strait and advised commercial vessels to coordinate with Iran. Trump claimed the operation was requested by countries with stranded ships, citing humanitarian concerns and the need to ensure free passage. US Central Command confirmed its support for the mission, involving significant military personnel and assets. Iran views any US intervention as a violation of a recent ceasefire.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged China on Monday to increase diplomatic pressure on Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking in a Fox News interview, Bessent stated that China, which imports 90% of Iran's energy, should leverage its relationship to influence Iran. He emphasized that while the U.S. maintains "absolute control" over the strategic waterway, China has a role to play in de-escalating tensions. Bessent's remarks highlight the U.S. desire for international cooperation in ensuring freedom of navigation in the critical shipping lane, linking China's energy purchases from Iran to its potential diplomatic influence.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has accused China of "funding the largest state sponsor of terrorism," referring to Iran, due to Beijing's significant energy purchases. Bessent made these remarks ahead of President Trump's upcoming visit to China. Despite the criticism, Bessent urged China to collaborate with the US in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked. He stated that the US has "absolute control" of the strait and is working to reopen it, suggesting China use its influence to encourage Iran to resolve the crisis diplomatically. Bessent also noted that China and Russia have previously blocked UN Security Council condemnation of Iran's actions.

A fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran has held for three weeks, with signs of the Strait of Hormuz potentially reopening. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that the US will initiate "Project Freedom" on Monday morning, a humanitarian effort to assist ships stranded in the strait. This initiative, requested by neutral countries, aims to facilitate maritime traffic. The US Navy will provide commercial vessels with navigational guidance and remain on standby to deter any Iranian interference. Trump warned that any obstruction of this humanitarian process would be met with a forceful response.

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will launch "Project Freedom" on Monday to help free ships stuck in the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as a humanitarian gesture. The operation aims to address ships running low on supplies due to the ongoing blockade. Trump warned that any interference with this effort would be met with a forceful response. The initiative comes amid soaring oil prices and public discontent with the war, which has impacted Trump's approval ratings. It remains unclear if this operation will involve coordination with Iran or if it risks disrupting the fragile ceasefire.

A cargo ship was attacked by multiple small craft near the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, approximately 11 nautical miles west of Sirik, Iran. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center confirmed the incident, stating that all crew members were safe and no environmental damage was reported. Vessels in the vicinity have been advised to proceed with caution. This event occurs amidst heightened tensions and Iranian threats to control the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global maritime chokepoint. Iran has recently presented a peace proposal to the U.S. suggesting Iranian governance of the strait. The U.S. military is currently enforcing a naval blockade in the area. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

A bulk carrier was attacked by multiple small craft off the coast of Iran, approximately 11 nautical miles west of Sirik, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO). The incident occurred near the Strait of Hormuz. The UKMTO reported that all crew members aboard the unidentified northbound vessel are safe and that no environmental impact has been reported. This event takes place amid heightened tensions in the region, with the Strait of Hormuz being a critical global shipping route. The US Central Command also stated it has redirected 49 commercial vessels to comply with its blockade on Iranian ports.