Iran denies Trump's ceasefire claim as Middle East conflict escalates
Iran rejects President Trump's claim it sought a ceasefire while attacks continue across the region. Trump prepares prime-time address amid falling approval ratings and economic concerns.
Iran has firmly denied US President Donald Trump's claim that it sought a ceasefire in the ongoing Middle East conflict. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that "no ceasefire proposal has been made by Iran," dismissing what he called "media speculation." Araghchi emphasized that the war will continue until the aggressor is punished and full compensation is paid to Iran.
Meanwhile, Trump is preparing to deliver a prime-time address on the Iran war, his first such televised speech since the conflict began over a month ago. The address comes amid growing domestic political pressure, with the president's approval ratings slipping below 40% and public discontent rising over both the war and its economic fallout.
The conflict continues to escalate, with missile and drone strikes affecting multiple fronts. Recently, an oil tanker off the coast of Qatar and Kuwait's airport were hit, while US and Israeli airstrikes continue to pound targets in Tehran. Reports indicate more than 115,000 civilian units have been damaged or destroyed in Iran, including residential, medical, educational, and relief centers.
The regional situation remains volatile, with Lebanon's Health Ministry reporting at least 1,318 killed and 3,935 injured since Israel's invasion began on March 2. Additionally, Russia has implemented a ban on gasoline exports to stabilize domestic prices, while Trump has suggested the US might consider leaving NATO over what he called lackluster military support in the war against Iran.
