Trump Rejects Iran Peace Proposal as War Powers Deadline Passes

President Donald Trump has officially rejected a 14-point peace proposal from Iran, characterized by Tehran as a major concession that would have deferred nuclear negotiations. The administration's hardening stance comes as the 60-day statutory deadline for military action under the War Powers Act expired on May 1. While the White House maintains a firm negotiating position, it faces escalating domestic pressure. On April 30, Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) joined Democrats in voting for a war cessation resolution, emphasizing that the 60-day deadline is a mandatory requirement rather than a suggestion. To circumvent congressional restrictions, President Trump notified leadership on May 1 that hostile acts beginning in February had technically ended, even as military operations continue. The President also sparked controversy with public remarks regarding the maritime blockade, comparing U.S. cargo and oil seizures to 'piracy.' These comments have reportedly complicated diplomatic efforts, even as Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine reaffirmed that blockade measures remain in effect for all ships in the region. In Tehran, the rhetoric has similarly sharpened. The intelligence arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued an ultimatum stating that the U.S. must choose between a 'bad deal' or an 'impossible operation.' This suggests that while Iran has attempted diplomatic outreach, its military establishment is growing impatient with the lack of progress, pressuring negotiators to either secure a favorable deal or abandon the current diplomatic track.