US President Donald Trump has rejected a proposal from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi aimed at easing tensions between the two countries.
The offer was presented at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 22, 2026.
Trump also indicated he expects the conflict to persist beyond the US midterm elections.
Araghchi's plan called for lifting a US naval blockade on Iranian ports and urged a resolution before the midterm elections.
Speaking at a UN press briefing, Araghchi said, "It depends on the US administration to decide."
He also stated that the strategic Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until Iran's conditions for reopening were met.
Araghchi asserted, "Iran will not surrender its sovereign rights under pressure."
A US official confirmed that indirect discussions with Iran through mediators are ongoing and described them as positive and constructive, focusing on nuclear issues.
However, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that Iran would show no flexibility on its nuclear program even if the US accepted the proposal.
Separately, media outlet MS NOW gained attention for a succinct onscreen summary during Trump's UN speech.
The chyron read: "Trump touts being a peacemaker while asking if he should annihilate Iran."
Trump had stated during his address, "Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again?"
