‘Bad idea’ or ‘betrayal’: Pentagon split pushed Trump to cancel Houthi strikes

President Donald Trump has dismissed Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and cease regional fighting within a week, according to unnamed US officials cited by the Wall Street Journal. Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, conveyed this peace plan to the US through Qatari mediators, indicating that a deal would lead to the reopening of the strait and a halt to regional clashes within seven days.

Araqchi stated that if the US demonstrates seriousness about reaching a deal and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, all preparations are in place.

Despite positive and constructive discussions through the mediators, Trump is privately skeptical that Iran will meet his demands, according to the Journal report. He has informed his staff that a renewed bombing campaign is likely following the November congressional elections. The ongoing conflict, which began on February 28 with US and Israeli strikes, has resulted in thousands of casualties, damaged Iran's economy, and extended the war into neighboring countries.

Iran and its allies have retaliated by targeting US allies in the Gulf with drones and missiles, while Houthi rebels in Yemen have attacked Saudi interests. Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Hizbollah forces in Lebanon have also been involved in the violence. The conflict has caused a humanitarian crisis in Yemen, with the UN Children's Fund reporting a rise in acute malnutrition among children.

Diplomatic efforts, including a UN General Assembly meeting in New York, highlight the global implications of this seven-month-long war.