Trump rejects Iran deal but keeps Tehran guessing with new talks and strike threat

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s latest proposal on Saturday, but less than 24 hours later said he expects US negotiators to hold more talks with Tehran this week. 

The shift comes as Qatar continues mediating between Washington and Tehran, while Trump says military action against Iran remains under consideration.

Trump leaves diplomacy on table

Trump told Axios on Sunday, September 27, that Iran wants an agreement, but not on terms acceptable to Washington.

He said Tehran had “overplayed their hand” and described its proposal as something the United States might have accepted a year ago.

The latest Iranian offer emerged from indirect discussions in New York involving US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Tehran proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and restarting nuclear negotiations within a week if Washington lifted its naval blockade, eased sanctions on oil sales and restored a regional ceasefire.

Trump rejected those terms on Saturday.

Qatari officials have continued carrying messages between the two sides and have circulated possible changes to the proposed text.

Regional sources said another round of indirect meetings could begin as early as Monday.

Strike option remains under consideration

Trump’s expectation of renewed negotiations did not come with a withdrawal of military pressure this time.

Asked whether he was considering resuming strikes against Iran, he told Axios: “I am always thinking about it.” 

The latest comments come after months of conflict and amid a continuing dispute over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil shipments.

Washington and Tehran remain divided over what any diplomatic settlement would require.

Iran has centered its demands on the waterway and US military restrictions, while the Trump administration is seeking nuclear concessions.

Trump also said US forces were facilitating oil shipments through the strait.

A US defense official confirmed that 22 million barrels were exported through the waterway on Friday night, according to Axios.

Qatar pushes for another opening

Qatar has emerged as the main channel for the latest indirect contacts.

Its prime minister met Iran’s president in New York before senior Qatari officials briefed Witkoff.

Mediators subsequently carried the original proposal and a possible compromise between the two sides.

Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi said Sunday that Tehran remains prepared for negotiations despite Trump’s rejection.

He said Iran was still awaiting an official response through mediators.

The immediate issue for Americans is whether the renewed contacts can produce an agreement that reduces the risk of another round of fighting while keeping oil moving through the Strait of Hormuz.

For now, Washington is pursuing diplomacy while leaving military action on the table.