‘Better deal’: What’s behind Trump’s rejection of Iran’s truce offer?

President Donald Trump has rejected Iran's proposal to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the terms are unacceptable. Experts suggest Trump believes economic sanctions and a naval blockade are effectively pressuring Iran, and that waiting will yield better concessions. Iran's proposal included lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, and a regional ceasefire in exchange for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and beginning negotiations. While both sides publicly express openness to a deal, they remain divided on who should make the initial concessions. However, experts also note that Trump's strategy carries risks, as prolonged pressure could also negatively impact his political standing, especially with upcoming midterm elections.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Tehran is awaiting an official response from the United States regarding its proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This comes after U.S. President Donald Trump rejected Iran's seven-day plan, deeming it "not acceptable." Trump also commented that Iran is "losing so badly." The article, published on September 27, 2026, focuses on the ongoing diplomatic exchange between the two nations concerning the strategic waterway.

Iran has proposed a seven-day peace deal to the United States, transmitted via Qatari mediators, that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end hostilities in the Middle East. The plan includes lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, waiving sanctions on Iranian oil sales, and observing a ceasefire that encompasses Lebanon. Iran's Foreign Minister detailed the proposal, stating that nuclear program talks would also restart within seven days of US acceptance. However, the Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump has rejected the deal and anticipates renewed strikes after the US midterm elections. Despite this, a US official described earlier discussions through mediators as "positive and constructive." The conflict has disrupted oil flows and impacted the global economy.

President Donald Trump has rejected a proposal from Iran, submitted via Qatar, that offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume nuclear talks within a week if Washington agreed. Trump stated his rejection of the proposal on Saturday. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had formally submitted the seven-day roadmap on Friday, awaiting a response. Reports indicated Trump was privately skeptical of Iran meeting his demands and expected a renewed bombing campaign on Iran after the US midterm elections. The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial waterway for global oil supply, and the conflict between the US and Iran has been at an impasse for nearly seven months.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has proposed a deal to the United States that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days, provided certain conditions are met as outlined in a June memorandum of understanding. This offer was delivered to the US via Qatar. A US official confirmed to the BBC that "constructive discussions" are underway through mediators, which also include nuclear issues. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for approximately 20% of global oil and LNG, was previously blocked by Iran following air strikes launched by the US and Israel. The closure has significantly impacted energy prices and increased pressure on the US administration, especially with upcoming Congressional elections.

President Donald Trump stated that the United States will not slow down its development of artificial intelligence, dismissing concerns about its risks as "hoaxes." He expressed that the US should not cooperate with China on AI technology, asserting that the US is currently leading in this field and intends to maintain that advantage. Trump's remarks came after a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, despite calls from US lawmakers, tech CEOs, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for regulation and guardrails on AI development due to potential global risks. The president likened fears surrounding AI to other issues he has previously labeled as "hoaxes," such as climate change and the Russia investigation.

President Donald Trump has reportedly rejected a seven-day ceasefire proposal from Iran aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian plan, presented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, called for the US to release frozen assets, lift oil sanctions, and end naval blockades within a week, after which negotiations for a "final deal" would begin. While the US government has not publicly responded, unnamed officials cited by The Wall Street Journal indicated Trump's skepticism about Iran fulfilling demands and his expectation of resuming attacks after the November midterm elections. Indirect diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with Qatar acting as an intermediary, and both sides have stated the door to diplomacy remains open.

Iran has proposed a seven-day roadmap to end its conflict with the United States, outlining conditions for a rapid implementation of a previously collapsed ceasefire deal. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi presented the plan in New York, reportedly passed to Washington via mediators. The proposal calls for a halt to hostilities on all fronts, including Gaza and Lebanon, within seven days. In return, Iran expects the US to release frozen assets, waive sanctions on its oil, and lift its naval blockade. The Strait of Hormuz would reopen on the final day of the seven-day period, and talks on Iran's nuclear program would commence immediately. This proposal closely mirrors a previous Memorandum of Understanding that expired in August.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on Friday that Tehran has presented a plan to Washington, conveyed through Qatar, that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz to maritime navigation within seven days of agreement. Araghchi met with US President Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff on Tuesday to discuss conditions for ending the war and restoring passage through the vital shipping channel. Araghchi stated that if the necessary conditions are met, normal maritime passage can be restored within the seven-day timeframe. He emphasized that Iran will not accept coercion or threats and will not surrender its sovereign rights under pressure, placing the choice with the United States.

US President Donald Trump hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for a three-day state visit in Washington, which focused on ceremony and symbolism over substantive policy achievements. While Trump described the meeting as "great," the summit yielded little progress on key issues like trade, artificial intelligence, Taiwan, and human rights. A temporary truce on trade tariffs was extended by only two months, falling short of China's desire for a longer extension. China's leverage was noted as increased due to its ability to block rare earth exports. The visit's main tangible outcome was the announcement of two pandas being sent to Atlanta zoo. For China, the lack of significant negative outcomes was considered a success.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, defending Israel's actions in Gaza and on the West Bank. The speech alienated international critics, with delegates from many countries walking out before he spoke, highlighting Israel's global isolation. However, Netanyahu's remarks were intended to appeal to his domestic base ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections, aiming to energize supporters angered by international criticism of Israel. He accused critics like Turkey and Qatar of tyranny and funding "toxic media," and labeled New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani an antisemite. While international observers and some analysts condemned the speech as containing "baseless lies" and aimed at boosting his election campaign, allies in Israel praised his defiant tone.

Iran has proposed a seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart nuclear talks, contingent on the US lifting asset freezes, permitting oil exports, and securing a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iranian diplomats presented this accelerated timeline, based on a previous memorandum of understanding, to US envoy Steve Witkoff. The deal aims to relieve global energy market pressure and could offer President Trump a political advantage before the US midterm elections. However, Iran expresses doubt that the US will meet these demands, particularly regarding reining in Israel. The proposed route for ships would primarily pass through Iranian waters, raising concerns for Saudi Arabia.

During his address at the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attacked Iran, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and critics accusing Israel of violations against Palestinians. Netanyahu also criticized allied nations like the United Kingdom and France for their stances on Israeli actions. He defended Israel's war against Iran, stating it was a necessary decision to prevent greater harm, and declared Israel was engaged in a "seven-front war." Netanyahu thanked US President Donald Trump for his partnership, highlighting joint missions over Iran and efforts to recover hostages. The speech prompted dozens of international envoys to walk out. The article also notes that Netanyahu faces an upcoming election and denies charges of genocide and war crimes, despite an ICC warrant.

Al Jazeera has rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's criticism of the network during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly. Netanyahu, speaking on Thursday, called Al Jazeera a "toxic media outlet" that aims to "brainwash young minds to hate Israel." Al Jazeera stated that Netanyahu's remarks are part of a sustained campaign against the network and its journalists, and expressed concern that such rhetoric from the UN podium threatens the safety of their journalists. The media network believes Netanyahu seeks to prevent them from reporting facts and documenting events. Al Jazeera highlighted the danger to its journalists, noting that many have been killed in Gaza, with some subjected to incitement campaigns before being targeted.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to the UN General Assembly was met with significant opposition. More than 100 people, including celebrities like Susan Sarandon and Chelsea Manning, were arrested at protests outside the UN. Inside the assembly hall, many delegates walked out as Netanyahu began his speech. During his address, Netanyahu asserted that Israel's actions in Gaza were "the opposite of a genocide" and accused New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani of antisemitism. The article also references further analysis on YouTube and a podcast episode discussing Netanyahu's relationship with America.

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in the United States for a state visit, marking his first in over a decade. He was personally greeted on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews by President Donald Trump and their wives, a rare gesture. Ahead of their summit, the two countries agreed to extend the Busan trade deal from November 10 to January 10. In a written speech, Xi stated that China and the United States "should be partners rather than rivals" and expressed belief that their goals could be mutually inclusive and beneficial to the world. The Chinese delegation included several high-ranking officials.

US President Donald Trump is meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping for a summit focused on "stabilizing" ties, according to experts. While trade, AI, and security are on the agenda, the primary goal is to re-establish trust rather than achieve major new deals. The meeting follows a period of escalating trade war tariffs and other restrictive measures between the two nations. Experts suggest the summit aims to continue a truce established in late October, potentially leading to a mechanism for reducing tariffs on specific goods and speeding up the flow of critical minerals. However, areas like AI safety and China's role concerning Iran and Taiwan remain complex issues due to a lack of mutual trust.

President Donald Trump welcomed Chinese leader Xi Jinping to Washington for a state visit, which includes discussions on AI technology, trade relations, and Taiwan. This visit coincides with the UN General Assembly, which Xi is not attending. The US and China have agreed to extend a temporary trade truce. In other news, the US has invited Vladimir Putin to a G20 meeting in December. Iran's president criticized the US at the UN General Assembly, calling it a "bully." Israel is facing a water shortage due to crippled desalination capacity, linked to damage to Gaza's wastewater infrastructure. A federal judge ordered the White House to restore press access for CNN, MS Now, and Politico. Eight US Navy personnel on the USS Lincoln have attempted suicide.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, in a pre-recorded UN address, declared that the Palestinian people are experiencing a critical historical juncture. He accused Israel of conducting a "genocidal war" in Gaza and fragmenting the West Bank through settlement expansion, warning of increasing "settler terrorism." Abbas stated that Israel's actions threaten not only the two-state solution but the very existence of Palestinians in their homeland. His speech was delivered via video after the Palestinian delegation was denied US visas, an action Abbas deemed a breach of US host country obligations. He also called for the implementation of a US-backed peace plan for Gaza and reaffirmed plans for legislative elections on November 28.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his country's military actions in the Middle East during a UN General Assembly speech, vowing to continue fighting and calling delegates who walked out "moral cowards." He rejected accusations of genocide in Gaza. Earlier, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, speaking via video link, accused Israel of policies threatening Palestinian existence and jeopardizing the two-state solution, detailing killing, destruction, and a "genocidal war" in Gaza. Abbas was denied a US entry visa, preventing his in-person address.

At the UN General Assembly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the U.S. and Israel of attacking Iran, portraying his country as a victim. Foreign policy expert Behnam Ben Taleblu suggested President Trump would likely react with a "smirk," believing he holds leverage. Trump had previously warned Iran of destruction or a deal. Despite the sharp rhetoric exchanged between the two leaders, Taleblu noted their diplomatic positions are predictable. Behind the scenes, U.S. officials, including Jared Kushner, held discussions with Iranian officials, described as productive by the U.S. Both nations appear to be using these talks to their advantage while exploring potential diplomatic paths amidst ongoing tensions.

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Washington, DC, extending a trade truce that paused punishing tariffs. The extension, agreed upon before Xi's state visit, delays a ban on rare-earth exports from China and includes an agreement for China to purchase more US soybeans. While some analysts view this as a useful interim step towards a more durable deal, others describe it as "transactional theatre" and "pure optics" aimed at improving Trump's political standing before upcoming US midterm elections. Despite the truce, deeper strategic rivalries persist between the two nations, encompassing competition in AI, rare-earth metals, and geopolitical issues like Taiwan and the Iran war. The short duration of the extensions suggests a permanent trade deal remains elusive.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is addressing the United Nations General Assembly at a critical juncture for both his political career and Israel's relationship with the UN. Facing intensifying international criticism, including accusations of genocide and war crimes in Gaza and the West Bank, Netanyahu is also contending with declining domestic support ahead of upcoming elections. Analysts suggest his UN address, a regular event for him, serves to project an image of defiance to his Israeli audience, potentially influencing public perception. Historically, Israeli leaders have portrayed their UN engagement as a stance against perceived hostility from the international body, which has frequently served as a platform for criticism of Israel's policies in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Benjamin Netanyahu is set to deliver a speech at the UN on Thursday, aiming to highlight Israel's achievements amidst growing international condemnation and domestic political challenges. He faces his toughest re-election bid, compounded by ongoing conflicts and settler violence in the West Bank. Internationally, countries like the UK, France, and Canada are considering sanctions on Israeli settlements, with accusations of ethnic cleansing leveled against settlers. Public opinion in the US has also shifted negatively towards Netanyahu's government. Protests are anticipated both at the UN and in New York City. Despite criticism, Israel's UN ambassador defends the government's actions, attributing negative perceptions to misinformation. Netanyahu's speech is intended to address world leaders and his Israeli electorate, projecting a message of control and appealing to right-wing audiences.

UK officials believe a deal transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while retaining a UK-US military base lease on Diego Garcia, is on hold due to US President Donald Trump's objections. Trump described the agreement as a "terrible deal" and stated he does not support it, casting doubt on its revival. The UK government, while expressing confidence in finding a solution, acknowledges progress is unlikely unless Trump changes his mind. Payments to Mauritius are currently suspended as US support is considered essential for the deal to proceed. The UK views the deal as vital for the future of the Diego Garcia base.

Amidst the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, a flurry of diplomatic activity is occurring concerning the ongoing US-Iran war. US special envoys met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for indirect talks, described by President Trump as "very good" and "very productive." Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also arrived in New York, marking the first visit by a leader of a country at war with the US. While these meetings and other initiatives, including discussions on a Qatari security framework proposal, aim to bring the US and Iran back to the negotiating table, analysts believe a diplomatic breakthrough this week is unlikely. Core disagreements between Washington and Tehran remain unresolved, and any potential deal would require consent from Iran's hardliners.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent met with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Washington on Wednesday for an unscheduled discussion. This meeting, held at the World Bank headquarters, followed an eight-hour negotiation in New York on Sunday, where both sides agreed to launch an AI dialogue and operationalize a bilateral trade body. Bessent stated the purpose was to address "unfinished business" and achieve strategic stability based on reciprocity and fairness. The talks occur as the US and China continue to negotiate the Busan trade agreement and face uncertainty regarding Chinese businesses accompanying President Xi Jinping on his state visit. Disagreements over potential investment announcements and the Board of Investment are reportedly creating roadblocks for the Chinese business delegation.

During the UN General Assembly, US President Donald Trump threatened to "annihilate" Iran, while simultaneously describing a recent meeting with Iranian officials as "very good." Iran's Armed Forces General Staff responded by warning of "crushing" retaliatory attacks, and Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei used combative imagery to describe Iran's defensive capabilities. These exchanges occurred amid ongoing US-Iran talks aimed at de-escalating a nearly seven-month war that has impacted global fuel prices and Iran's economy. The discussions, involving US envoys and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, were the first in-person meetings in months and are seen as an attempt to revive diplomatic channels.

At the UN General Assembly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian criticized the US as a "bully" and "terrorist" in the Middle East, while asserting Iran's commitment to dialogue and diplomacy without force. He vowed Iran would not yield to American pressure, even as the US delegation walked out during his speech. Pezeshkian also focused on securing regional support for Iran's proposals regarding the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the need for independent regional security. He accused the US of terrorism for assassinating a leader and killing schoolchildren, stating Iran only defended itself. Despite the defiant tone, Iran's foreign minister engaged in constructive talks with a US envoy, marking the first such meeting since June, though Iran has set preconditions for further negotiations.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian delivered a defiant speech to the UN General Assembly, stating Iran will never "bend the knee" following US President Trump's threat to "annihilate" Iran if a peace deal is not agreed upon. Pezeshkian presented images of civilians, including children, allegedly killed in missile strikes, which the US is investigating. Iran retaliated against US-Israeli air campaigns with missile and drone attacks and disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a US blockade of Iranian ports. A preliminary agreement to end the war and reopen the strait collapsed due to resumed Iranian attacks and the reinstated US blockade. Iran's desire to control and collect fees from the Strait of Hormuz remains a point of contention with the US.

As President Xi Jinping prepares for a state visit to the White House to meet President Donald Trump, the US-China trade war, a central policy of Trump's presidency since 2025, has seen significant tariff increases on both sides. Despite these measures, the US trade deficit with China has not decreased, and bilateral trade fell by 29% in 2025. China, meanwhile, has achieved a substantial global trade surplus of $1.2 trillion. The conflict extends beyond tariffs to include sanctions, export restrictions on critical minerals by China, and US curbs on advanced technology exports to Beijing. A tariff truce is set to expire soon, with trade and artificial intelligence competition high on the agenda for the upcoming talks.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Iranian officials held three hours of talks with US special envoy Steve Witkoff, a meeting confirmed by President Trump. A senior Iranian official indicated Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a week if the US eased military and economic pressure, a softer stance than previous preconditions. This potential shift, reportedly approved by Iran's supreme leader and national security council, faces internal disputes within Tehran. The talks, mediated by Qatar, represent the first high-level contact since June. Despite these discussions, President Trump's rhetoric at the UN and mixed signals from Iran suggest significant gaps remain between the two nations.

Iran's delegation, led by President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, has arrived in New York for the UN General Assembly to present Iran's narrative of resilience and diplomacy amidst the ongoing war with the United States. Pezeshkian plans to address the assembly on Wednesday, detailing grievances about alleged US-committed crimes and the resulting distrust, while also seeking avenues for resolution. Araghchi will focus on defending Iranian rights and interests in sideline meetings. Iran intends to raise issues such as the Minab school bombing and the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The delegation's visit occurs as the US tightens economic pressure and considers further military action, while regional mediators are pushing for a diplomatic end to the crisis.

At the UN, President Trump stated he has a significant decision regarding Iran, weighing between military action and a peace deal. This contrasted with UN Secretary-General António Guterres' warning about deepening global divisions. Trump also expressed confidence in his ability to resolve the Russia-Ukraine war, predicting a swift conclusion. He downplayed concerns about Artificial Intelligence, renaming it "super intelligence" and asserting US leadership against China. Additionally, Trump signed an agreement with Denmark and Greenland to increase US military presence on the island, reaffirming Greenland's sovereignty while granting the US broad access.

Leaders from six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states will meet with US President Donald Trump in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The meeting occurs as the US-Israel war on Iran nears seven months, significantly impacting GCC economies through disrupted oil and gas exports and threats to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. GCC nations aim to convey concerns about potential consequences of further US military strikes on Iran and seek to persuade Trump towards de-escalation and concessions to Tehran. They also want to ensure freedom of navigation and address individual predicaments, such as Qatar's curtailed gas shipments and Saudi Arabia's pressure from Houthi advances in Yemen. Trump faces a "big decision" on the war and may seek greater GCC engagement against Iran in exchange for US intervention against Houthi attacks.

Middle Eastern leaders are converging at the UN General Assembly to address escalating regional conflicts, including the war with Iran, Houthi attacks, and the future of Gaza. Key figures from Jordan, Türkiye, Qatar, Egypt, and Israel are expected to speak, with President Trump also scheduled to meet Gulf leaders to discuss the Iran conflict and regional stability. The Iran war has reshaped the region, creating potential for new energy partnerships and closer Israel-Arab cooperation, though Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping pose a new threat to energy supplies. Meanwhile, Arab nations are seeking a political settlement for Gaza, differing with Israel on Palestinian statehood and rejecting forced displacement. Diplomatic divisions are evident, with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address the assembly via video after being denied a U.S. visa.

During their first meeting at the UN in New York, Donald Trump praised Andy Burnham as a "natural businessman" and suggested the UK's relationship with the US was "more up" than under Keir Starmer, believing Burnham would be a "great prime minister." They discussed various topics including Rolls-Royce, energy, and immigration. However, Trump strongly criticized the UK's decision to give up sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, calling it a "terrible deal" due to their strategic importance. Burnham stated they had established a good connection. Trump also commented on the Iran war and cost of living, and defended his actions regarding journalists.

The United States and China have agreed to establish an official AI dialogue, including a proposed threat-notification system. This agreement was announced following high-level talks in New York on Sunday between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, and Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng. American officials stated that this new operational channel builds upon earlier discussions held in Beijing. Analysts suggest this dialogue is a pragmatic step towards crisis prevention in their tech competition. However, deep-seated divisions concerning chip access, model distillation, and market dominance may limit its overall impact.

Top US and Chinese officials met in New York on Sunday to discuss a potential "notification mechanism" for AI incidents that could impact national security. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng as "successful" and emphasized the importance of transparency between the two leading AI powers. This meeting precedes a summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this week. The discussions also addressed operationalizing a process for identifying potential tariff cuts on goods, as a tariff war truce is set to expire soon.

The US has proposed an "AI hotline" to China, a notification mechanism for serious AI incidents threatening national security. This idea was discussed by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng ahead of a summit between Presidents Trump and Xi. The US aims to increase transparency and avoid shared risks in AI development, emphasizing the importance of communication between the two leading AI powers. While China's official response is limited, the proposal comes amid escalating AI competition and warnings from tech leaders about the need for guardrails. This initiative mirrors existing US-China crisis communication channels, such as military hotlines, and aims to manage potential dangers as AI capabilities rapidly advance.