Trump Weighs Military Action as US Rejects Iran's Nuclear Offer
US President Donald Trump is weighing military action against Iran after Washington rejected Tehran’s revised nuclear proposal, according to Axios. Trump plans to meet senior national security officials on May 19 as nuclear negotiations remain stalled. US officials say Iran’s latest offer failed to meet key demands on uranium enrichment and stockpiles, with sanctions relief contingent on reciprocal steps from Tehran.
Tensions have escalated in the Gulf region, where US Central Command reports redirecting 84 commercial vessels and disabling four others as part of a maritime blockade against Iran in the Arabian Sea. Meanwhile, an Iranian source told Reuters that Washington showed some flexibility—agreeing to release only 25% of Iran’s frozen funds—but Tehran insists on full sanctions removal and a permanent end to hostilities. Tasnim News Agency noted limited US offers on oil export relief, which Iran rejected.
Pakistan continues mediating between the US and Iran, with Tehran conveying its updated proposal through Islamabad. Qatar supports these diplomatic efforts, emphasizing regional stability. Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stressed dialogue as the only way to avoid renewed conflict and preserve the ceasefire. Separately, Pakistan has deployed 8,000 troops, fighter jets, and air defense systems to Saudi Arabia under a mutual defense pact as a precautionary measure.
Iran’s new Persian Gulf Strait Authority warned that ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz without coordination violate regulations, with around 1,500 vessels reportedly awaiting clearance. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Iran to ensure free navigation and avoid threats to neighbors or critical infrastructure. Iraq denied Saudi claims that drones targeting the kingdom originated from its territory.
In Lebanon, Hezbollah claimed attacks on Israeli positions and downing an Israeli aircraft, while Israel said it struck over 30 Hezbollah sites and killed fighters. Israel ordered evacuations near Tyre ahead of further operations. Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported over 3,000 killed and 9,000 injured since March 2. Lebanon also condemned alleged attacks on the UAE’s Barakah nuclear plant as a dangerous escalation.
President Joseph Aoun called for negotiations focused on Israeli withdrawal, a ceasefire, and returning displaced residents. Israeli PM Netanyahu held a second security cabinet meeting amid rising tensions. Trump criticized major US media outlets for allegedly distorting Iran-related coverage. Separately, the US Treasury reached a $275 million settlement with Adani Enterprises over alleged sanctions violations involving Iranian LPG shipments via Dubai.