Trump rejects Iranian ceasefire proposal, expects war to continue after midterm elections - report

US President Donald Trump has declined Iran's seven-day ceasefire proposal aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. Trump expects the US military's bombing campaign to resume following the midterm elections. This comes after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi suggested that the deal, which includes lifting a US naval blockade on Iranian ports, would be more beneficial if implemented before the midterm elections.

Araghchi stressed that the decision lies with the US administration to accept and implement Iran's seven-day plan. If conditions are not met, the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed, Araghchi added, reiterating that Iran will not surrender its sovereign rights under pressure. However, a senior Iranian official stated that Iran will not budge on its nuclear program, even if the US accepts the proposal.

Positive, constructive talks between the US and Iran continue through mediators, with discussions encompassing nuclear issues, a US official said on Friday.