Trump Warns Fragile Iran Ceasefire Could Fail Amid Nuclear Dispute

in Blog, Latest Updates, News on May 13, 2026

Trump Warns Iran Ceasefire Is on “Massive Life Support” Amid Rising Tensions

US-Iran Ceasefire Faces Fresh Uncertainty

US President Donald Trump has warned that the fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran is on “massive life support,” raising concerns about a possible return to conflict in the region. Speaking from the Oval Office on Monday, Trump said the ceasefire remains active but described it as “unbelievably weak.” He compared the situation to a critically ill patient with only a “1 percent chance of living.”

Trump Rejects Iran’s Counter-Proposal

Tehran’s Demands Spark Strong Response

The tensions escalated after Iran submitted a counter-offer to Washington aimed at ending the conflict and reopening the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Trump strongly criticized the proposal, calling it “totally unacceptable” and dismissing it as “a piece of garbage.” He also accused Iranian leaders of repeatedly changing their position during negotiations.

Iran Defends Its Position

Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf responded by warning that Iran’s armed forces are fully prepared to answer any aggression. Meanwhile, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei defended Tehran’s proposal, describing it as “responsible” and “generous.” He added that Iran would take any necessary steps to protect its national interests.

What Iran Wants in the Deal

Key Conditions in Tehran’s Proposal

According to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, Tehran’s proposal includes:

  • An immediate end to military operations on all fronts
  • A halt to the US naval blockade of Iranian ports
  • Guarantees against future attacks on Iran
  • Compensation for war-related damages
  • Recognition of Iran’s sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz

The proposal also reportedly references ongoing Israeli strikes linked to Iran-backed Hezbollah forces in Lebanon.

Nuclear Dispute Remains a Major Obstacle

Trump and Netanyahu Demand Action

Trump claimed Iran had backed away from previous understandings regarding the removal of enriched uranium supplies. However, sources close to Iran’s negotiating team denied any agreement to move nuclear material outside the country. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also stated that Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile must be removed and remaining enrichment facilities dismantled before the conflict can truly end.

Global Oil Markets Feel the Pressure

Strait of Hormuz Crisis Raises Oil Prices

The ongoing tensions have already impacted global energy markets. Iran’s continued restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz — a key global shipping route — have contributed to rising international oil prices. Normally, nearly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments pass through the strait, making the region critically important for global trade and energy security.

Background of the Iran Conflict

Israeli and US forces launched major air strikes on Iran on 28 February, triggering a sharp escalation in regional tensions. A ceasefire agreement eventually came into effect last month, although occasional exchanges of fire have continued since then.