‘Iran can’t have nuclear weapon’ – Trump calls ceasefire proposal a ‘significant step’

US president, Donald Trump on Monday, April 6, described a proposed 45-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Iran as a “significant step,” while reiterating that Tehran must not possess nuclear weapons.

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Speaking at the White House, Trump said negotiations were ongoing through intermediaries but stressed that the proposal did not go far enough.

Iran formally rejected the ceasefire plan, according to Islamic Republic News Agency, communicating its position through Pakistan. Tehran instead called for a permanent end to the war rather than a temporary truce. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated that negotiations cannot align with ultimatums, violence, or threats of further military action.

Iran’s response reportedly included a 10-point framework proposing a broader regional de-escalation, guarantees for safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, the lifting of sanctions, and commitments to post-war reconstruction.

The ceasefire proposal was put forward by mediators from Egypt, Pakistan, and Turkey. A US official described it as one of several options under discussion, noting that Trump had not formally approved it while military operations continue.

Despite the diplomatic efforts, Trump issued a stark warning, setting a deadline and threatening major strikes on Iran’s infrastructure if no agreement is reached. He indicated that key facilities, including power plants and bridges, could be targeted.

He also defended his earlier strong language regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, saying it was used to emphasise urgency. Trump further claimed the US had achieved “total regime change” in Iran and suggested that the current leadership in Tehran was less radical.

Sources indicate that while preparations for a large-scale US-Israeli military operation targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure are in place, the extension of the deadline is intended to allow a final window for diplomacy.