Original Source
Iran Rejects US Peace Plan as 'Excessive' Amid Escalating Conflict
Escalating Conflict and Stalled Peace Talks
The US and Israel have continued to strike targets inside Iran. The IDF reported hitting a research center linked to the Iranian Navy in the central city of Isfahan. In response, the Iranian military released new footage of missiles being launched towards Israel and the Gulf. Reported strikes occurred in northern Israel, Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain, with a drone strike causing a huge fireball at Kuwait International Airport.
Reports suggested the US was negotiating a 15-point peace plan through intermediaries. However, an Iranian military spokesperson defiantly rejected these claims, stating the US was 'negotiating with itself'. Donald Trump, the US President, insisted Iran was 'so beaten' and had lost its leadership, equating it to 'regime change'. This perspective overlooks the institutional nature of the Iranian system, suggesting the regime's resilience despite attacks. Iran's media responded by outright rejecting the so-called peace plan, which included demands like ending support for proxy groups, halting nuclear programs, and opening the Strait of Hormuz.
Strait of Hormuz Reopens Partially, Oil Prices Remain Volatile
Iran announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to 'non-hostile' commercial shipping vessels from countries not involved in the conflict, provided they negotiate safe passage. The strait had seen a virtual shutdown since the war's initial days. Tankers from China, India, and Pakistan have reportedly managed to navigate through. Oil prices, particularly Brent crude, continue to fluctuate around $100 per barrel, reflecting extreme market volatility. Business leaders, including Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, have warned that sustained high oil prices could lead to a global recession.
*Source: YouTube: BBC News (2026-03-25)*
