Iran Sends Ceasefire Response via Pakistan; Trump Rejects as 'Unacceptable'

Iran has transmitted its response to a U.S. ceasefire proposal through Pakistani diplomatic channels, urging negotiations to achieve a permanent end to hostilities across all fronts, including in Lebanon where Israel battles Iranian-backed Hezbollah, according to Iranian state media. President Donald Trump rejected the response as 'TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE' in a social media post, offering no further explanation, while U.S. officials maintain that diplomacy remains the priority before resuming military action.

The latest U.S. proposal calls for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, restoring maritime security, and rolling back Iran's nuclear enrichment program, which includes over 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60% purity—close to weapons-grade levels. Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated an offer to store Iran's enriched uranium as part of a negotiated settlement, but no agreement has been reached. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a CBS interview, said Trump had expressed willingness to physically remove the material, stating, 'I think it can be done.'

Tensions flared in the Gulf as drones triggered a fire on a commercial vessel near Qatar, while the UAE and Kuwait reported drone incursions. The UAE shot down two drones and attributed them to Iran, which has not claimed responsibility. Iran's Revolutionary Guard warned of 'heavy assaults' on U.S. bases and ships if its oil tankers are targeted, following U.S. strikes on two Iranian tankers attempting to breach a naval blockade. Since April 13, the U.S. has turned back 61 vessels and disabled four in its blockade of Iranian ports.

Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued directives for continued military operations during a meeting with top commanders, state media reported, marking his first known involvement since the war began. Meanwhile, the U.S. ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, said the administration is giving diplomacy 'every chance' before returning to full-scale hostilities. The court will resume hearing on Tuesday.