WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that military action against Iran could resume if Tehran engages in what he described as unacceptable behavior, even as discussions over a potential deal continue.
Speaking before departing West Palm Beach for Miami, Trump said he had been briefed on the general outline of a proposed agreement but was awaiting its full details. He expressed doubt that the offer would meet U.S. expectations, adding that Iran had not faced sufficient consequences for its past actions.
When questioned about the possibility of renewed strikes, Trump avoided a direct commitment but acknowledged it remained an option if Iran “misbehaves.”
Meanwhile, an Iranian official revealed that Tehran’s proposal so far not accepted by Washington includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending the U.S. blockade, while postponing negotiations over its nuclear programme to a later stage.
Trump has repeatedly maintained that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and has voiced dissatisfaction with the latest proposal. However, Iran’s foreign minister signaled that Tehran remains open to diplomacy if the U.S. adjusts its approach.
Recent reports suggest Iran is willing to restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz ahead of resolving nuclear-related disputes, a sequence now formally outlined through mediators.
Despite ongoing tensions, Trump said he prefers a non-military resolution “on a human basis,” though he has also asserted he has the authority to extend military operations if necessary.
The situation continues to place pressure on global energy markets, as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes have driven up fuel prices and raised economic concerns.
Iran’s broader proposal reportedly includes the withdrawal of U.S. forces from surrounding regions, lifting sanctions and blockades, releasing frozen assets, compensation measures, and ending conflicts across multiple fronts, including Lebanon, along with a new mechanism to manage the vital shipping route.
Although the U.S. and Israel halted airstrikes on Iran several weeks ago, no comprehensive agreement has yet been reached to formally end the conflict, which has already caused major disruptions to global energy supplies and heightened fears of wider economic instability.
Iran has restricted most shipping in the Gulf for over two months, while the U.S. has also imposed limitations on vessels linked to Iranian ports. Washington has maintained that any resolution must ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons, while Tehran continues to insist its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes.
According to officials, Iran’s latest proposal seeks to first end hostilities with guarantees against further attacks, followed by reopening the strait and lifting blockades, with more complex nuclear negotiations to take place at a later stage.
