Trump Rejects Iran's Cease-Fire Proposal, Vows 'Iran Cannot Have a Nuclear Weapon'

President Donald Trump announced Saturday that he rejects Iran's seven-day cease-fire proposal, stating unequivocally that "Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon." The president expressed his stance to reporters at the White House before departing for a trip to Tennessee.

Trump indicated that he does not wish to relinquish the United States' pressure on Tehran, asserting that the Iranian regime is seeking a deal to end the ongoing conflict. He posted on his Truth Social account, "IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!!!", characterizing the war-weary Iranians as negotiating from a position of weakness.

"They want to make a deal where they open the Strait immediately because they're losing so badly," Trump stated. A report from The Wall Street Journal indicated that Trump had rejected the cease-fire proposal, which reportedly included reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal also aimed to initiate fresh nuclear talks and lift the U.S. naval blockade that has significantly impacted Iran's economy. Trump also reportedly told aides he expects to resume bombing Iran after the midterm elections.

Meanwhile, Iran's military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, issued a statement through the Mehr news agency warning of risks to U.S. interests if Washington "makes a mistake." The statement, attributed to the military command, asserted, "Iran will not start the war, but if the enemy imposes it, Iran is ready to defend its security and territorial integrity."

Despite the escalating tensions, diplomatic channels appear to remain open. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his team are expected to remain in New York until Wednesday, according to Iran's IRNA news agency. They have been in the city for UN General Assembly meetings.