(VOVWORLD) - Iran on Wednesday rejected a United States proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and instead put forward its own terms, including a demand for international recognition of Iran’s authority over the Strait of Hormuz.
A senior Iranian political security official cited by Press TV called President Trump's 15-point proposal, delivered on behalf of the US by Pakistan, “excessive”. “Iran will end the war when it decides to do so and when its own conditions are met,” he said.
Another Iranian official said the proposal is still under review – though the initial response was "not positive".
Previously, Tehran outlined 5 conditions for ending the conflict: recognizing Iran’s "natural and legitimate right" over the Strait of Hormuz; ceasing all military activities targeting Iran and its allies; clearly defining and guaranteeing payments for war reparations and damages; establishing mechanisms to ensure that that the conflict will not reoccur; and ceasing all actions in the region that Tehran deems hostile.
Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf urged the US to not "test our resolve to defend our land," as Washington increases military deployments to the Middle East. He said Tehran is closely monitoring US troop movements in the region.
The White House warned it will "hit harder" if Iran does not accept defeat but left open the possibility of advancing its 15-point plan.
Western media reported that in-person negotiations between Washington and Tehran could begin this weekend, with Pakistan or Turkey as possible venues. However, neither side has confirmed this report.