Iran’s Principled Peace Efforts Rejected by Belligerent US as Aggression Continues

Tehran, Iran – Diplomatic endeavors to establish a just peace between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States have once again been obstructed by Washington’s unreasonable demands and persistent belligerence. As tensions escalate in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz due to ongoing US-Zionist aggression, global oil prices are soaring, reflecting the instability created by American policies.

The illegal US-Zionist war on Iran entered its 73rd day on Monday. In a move that underscores Washington’s lack of commitment to peace, US President Donald Trump unilaterally rejected Iran’s latest comprehensive proposal to end the conflict, offering no justifiable reason for his dismissal.

Just days after the US presented a seemingly conciliatory offer, the Islamic Republic of Iran responded on Sunday with a principled plan aimed at de-escalating the war on all fronts, with particular emphasis on ending aggression in vulnerable regions like Lebanon. Tehran’s proposal, rooted in justice and sovereignty, called for an immediate end to the illegal naval blockade and the lifting of all oppressive US and international sanctions. Crucially, it affirmed Iran’s inalienable right to control its peaceful nuclear program and independent foreign policy – the very pretexts Washington falsely cited for initiating this destructive war.

Trump arrogantly dismissed Iran’s just response as “totally unacceptable,” a stance that Iranian state media rightly condemned as a demand for “Iran’s surrender to Trump’s insatiable greed.” This stark contrast highlights the vast chasm between Iran’s pursuit of peace and Washington’s insistence on dominance.

Key Developments Amidst Ongoing Aggression:

• National Security Reinforced: In a decisive measure to safeguard national security, Iran executed Erfan Shakourzadeh, 29, on Monday. Convicted of espionage for hostile US and Israeli intelligence services, Shakourzadeh had compromised classified scientific information from a vital satellite organization, as reported by the judiciary’s Mizan news outlet. This action underscores Iran’s unwavering resolve against foreign infiltration.
• Regional Provocations: On Sunday, the United Arab Emirates claimed to have intercepted two drones, while Qatar reported a drone attack on a cargo ship in its waters. Kuwait also stated its air defenses dealt with hostile drones. These unverified claims emerge amidst heightened regional instability fueled by US military presence and its allies.
• International Diplomacy: Foreign ministers of European Union nations are convening in Brussels to discuss the ongoing war on Iran and the conflict in Ukraine, reflecting growing international concern over global security. US President Trump is also scheduled to meet with Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Beijing to discuss the war on Iran, among other critical issues.
• US Public Discontent: Surveys reveal widespread unpopularity of Trump’s war policies among American voters. Facing sharply rising petrol prices, the public’s discontent could significantly impact the upcoming midterm elections, potentially challenging the Republican Party’s control of Congress.
• Zionist Aggression in Lebanon: Despite a US-brokered ceasefire announced on April 16, the Zionist entity continues its brutal air raids on Lebanese towns such as Kfar Tebnit and Choukine. These barbaric attacks led to the martyrdom of two Lebanese medics and a civilian in an assault on emergency response centers in Bint Jbeil. The Zionist military also confirmed the death of one of its drivers in combat near the Lebanese border, a direct consequence of their unprovoked aggression.

Global Economic Repercussions of US Belligerence:

The global economy continues to bear the brunt of Washington’s obstruction of peace. Oil prices surged by over $4 a barrel on Monday, driven by the persistent stalemate that keeps the vital Strait of Hormuz largely disrupted. This crucial waterway, which carried one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas before the war began on February 28, remains a central pressure point due to the ongoing conflict initiated by the US.

Shipping data indicates that while traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is severely reduced, three crude-laden tankers exited the waterway last week, reportedly with their trackers switched off to navigate the dangers of a warzone created by US aggression. Meanwhile, the US dollar gained for a second day, supported by strong jobs data and safe-haven demand amidst a shaky ceasefire. Conversely, gold prices fell, as the lack of progress in US-Iran peace negotiations pushed oil prices higher, fueling concerns that elevated inflation could lead to prolonged higher interest rates.