Iran branded US deal a 'wish list' but confirmed review as Trump threatened to resume bombing

TEHRAN, IRAN: Iran reportedly has begun formally reviewing a US-backed proposal aimed at ending months of military escalation in the Gulf, with officials in Tehran signaling on Thursday, May 7, that a final response could soon be delivered through regional mediators.

The development comes as tensions remain high following repeated warnings from President Donald Trump that military action could resume if negotiations collapse, placing fresh pressure on Iran’s leadership.

Tehran studies Washington's offer 

Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed to news agency ISNA that the proposal is now under internal review, suggesting that discussions inside the Iranian leadership are entering a decisive phase.

According to ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, Tehran will communicate its final position to mediators in Pakistan after officials complete their internal consultations.

The proposal, pushed by Washington in coordination with regional partners, reportedly lays out the first framework for ending hostilities and opening the door to negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.

Roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments pass through the Strait, making the conflict there a major international concern.

Under the draft understanding, Iran would be expected to pause uranium enrichment activities for a defined period while the United States gradually eases sanctions and considers releasing billions in frozen Iranian assets.

Reports also suggest that both sides could begin easing restrictions on shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz if an agreement moves forward.

Trump escalated the pressure on Wednesday, warning on his social platform that if Tehran rejected the proposal, “the bombing starts, and it will be at a much higher level and intensity than before.” 

Iran continues to downplay Trump's threats

Iranian officials, however, have publicly downplayed the American pressure campaign.

Baqaei reportedly dismissed parts of the proposal as an “Americans’ wish list,” suggesting that Tehran might seek changes before accepting any framework.

Even as talks continue, Iranian leaders have publicly mocked Washington’s recent military and diplomatic strategy.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf ridiculed US operations on social media, joking that “Operation Trust Me Bro failed” and claiming Washington had now shifted to “Operation Fauxios”- a sarcastic jab at media reports surrounding the negotiations.

At the same time, Iran appears to be widening its diplomatic outreach.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is looking toward China for support in building what he called a “new post-war” regional framework, signaling that Beijing might play a larger role if negotiations with Washington move ahead.