Global Outlook

  Washington’s Firm Line on Nuclear Capability The United States’ outright rejection of Iran’s 14-point peace proposal underscores a long-standing policy: no negotiation pathway can proceed while Tehran retains ambitions for a nuclear programme. President Donald Trump reiterated this stance clearly, stating the US “cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. ” This rhetorical hard line signals Washington’s intent to keep maximum leverage, even at the cost of prolonging the conflict that began on February 28. Tehran’s Dual-Stage Blueprint and Rising Friction Iran’s reported two-stage negotiation plan —first halting hostilities, then initiating nuclear talks—was swiftly dismissed. Trump did not mince words, calling the proposal “unbelievably weak.” Meanwhile, Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that Washington must accept the terms “or face failure.” With neither side shifting position, diplomatic paralysis now dominates the landscape. Geopolitical Stakes: Hormuz Tensi...