Iran has rejected United States proposals to end the ongoing Middle East conflict, describing them as “unrealistic, illogical and excessive,” while intensifying military operations against Israel as the war enters its second month.
The rejection came as Iran launched fresh missile strikes on Israel on Monday, further escalating a conflict that has spread across multiple fronts. Oil prices surged following the entry of Yemen’s Houthi group into the war.
Israel’s military confirmed that two drones launched from Yemen wereintercepted, marking the first direct involvement of the Iran-aligned Houthis since hostilities between Washington and Tehran escalated.
Fighting has also intensified along Israel’s northern border, with Lebanon’s Hezbollah firing rockets into Israeli territory. Israel responded with strikes it said targeted military infrastructure in Tehran and Hezbollah-linked sites in Beirut.
U.S. President Donald Trump issued a renewed warning to Iran, demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz or risk potential attacks on Iranian energy facilities.
Iran remained defiant. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran had received indirect signals from Washington indicating a willingness to negotiate but rejected the terms.
“Our position is clear. We are under military aggression. Therefore, all our efforts and strength are focused on defending ourselves,” he said.
Baghaei also disclosed that Iran’s parliament is reviewing a possible withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, raising concerns about nuclear oversight in the region.
The United States has deployed additional troops to the region, while Iran maintains its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
Global energy markets have reacted sharply, with Brent crude rising close to $115 per barrel. Analysts warn that Houthi involvement could threaten the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, another key global shipping route.
The conflict has resulted in heavy casualties, with thousands killed across Iran, Lebanon, Iraq and among U.S. forces. Iran confirmed the death of senior Revolutionary Guards Navy commander Alireza Tangsiri.
Tensions are also rising in southern Lebanon, where Israel has indicated plans to establish a buffer zone, raising fears of prolonged military presence and further displacement.
With no immediate resolution in sight, the conflict continues to deepen, keeping global markets and diplomatic channels on edge.
