Iran says its peace proposal 'not excessive', accuses US of 'unreasonable demands'The US-Iran conflict has entered a critical phase as military escalation, diplomatic breakdowns and rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to dominate global attention. US President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s latest ceasefire response sent through Pakistani mediators, calling it “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!” while warning that Washington could resume major military action if negotiations collapse. Iran has sought a broader regional settlement, including an end to fighting in Lebanon and guarantees on maritime security, but the latest diplomatic efforts appear to have stalled.At the United Nations, Iran sharply criticised a US-backed resolution on the Strait of Hormuz crisis, describing it as “politically motivated” and warning member states against supporting it. Tehran says the only real solution is ending the war, removing blockades and restoring normal maritime transit. The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the crisis, with repeated reports of drone attacks, ship fires and security threats affecting one of the world’s most important energy corridors.Israel has simultaneously expanded military operations in southern Lebanon, targeting positions allegedly linked to Hezbollah. Hezbollah claims it has responded with multiple attacks on Israeli positions despite ongoing ceasefire discussions. The conflict has widened regional instability, with Gulf nations reporting drone intrusions and maritime attacks raising fears of a broader war across West Asia.Iran’s nuclear programme remains one of the biggest sticking points in negotiations. The International Atomic Energy Agency says Iran has accumulated highly enriched uranium nearing weapons-grade purity. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war cannot truly end unless Iran’s enriched uranium is removed from the country, while Iran insists its military is fully prepared to protect nuclear facilities from any attack or infiltration.Global powers have also stepped deeper into the crisis. Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow’s proposal to relocate Iran’s enriched uranium remains available, while France and Britain are discussing maritime security initiatives for the Gulf once hostilities ease. Iran has warned that any foreign military involvement in the Strait of Hormuz would face a strong response.The continuing confrontation has shaken global markets, pushed up oil prices and disrupted shipping operations in the Gulf region. Concerns are growing that any further escalation involving Iran, Israel and the United States could trigger a wider regional conflict with serious economic and geopolitical consequences. Follow TOI’s live coverage for the latest updates on military strikes, ceasefire talks, nuclear tensions, Gulf security threats and reactions from global leaders.