Iran official says US’ proposal to end war ‘being considered’

International

By MyTVCebu Desk

THE proposal made by the United States (US) is "still being considered", said Iran.

Iran said it wants to end the war the way the US proposed with reports emerging that the two sides could be close to an agreement, a BBC report said.

US news outlet Axios reported that the White House believes it could be closing in on a 14 point memorandum of understanding with Tehran.

The memo reportedly includes a suspension of Iranian nuclear enrichment, lifting of sanctions, and restoring free transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson said Tehran will share its views on the proposal with Pakistani mediators.

"The American proposal is still being reviewed by Iran," the spokesperson said.

But a senior Iranian parliament member dismissed the proposal as a wish list. He also warned that if the US does not surrender and grant necessary concessions, Iran will deliver a harsh and regret inducing response.

President Trump said the US has had very good talks with Iran in the last 24 hours and that a deal is possible.

Trump also threatened renewed violence, writing that if Iran does not agree to a deal, the bombing starts at a much higher level and intensity than before.

He announced he is pausing a US operation meant to help restore oil flow through the Gulf. Iran has not yet reacted publicly.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 percent of the world's oil passes, has been blockaded by Iran since the US and Israel began attacking in late February.

In early April, the US and Iran announced a ceasefire, but few vessels have been able to transit the strait since then.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there is full coordination between himself and Trump over Iran.

"There are no surprises. We share common goals," Netanyahu said. "The most important objective is the removal of all enriched material from Iran."

His comments came after Israel launched its first strike on Beirut since a ceasefire was agreed in April. Netanyahu said forces targeted a senior Hezbollah commander.

Hezbollah began striking Israel in early March in retaliation for attacks on Iran. Despite the ceasefire, both sides have continued attacking, accusing each other of violations. (Jene-V N. Sayson, BAEL-ELSD CTU-TC Intern)