President Donald Trump has rejected the latest proposal from Iran to end the two-month US-Iran war, as the conflict continues to disrupt global energy markets and destabilize southern Lebanon.
- Diplomatic Deadlock: Trump rejected an Iranian proposal that would delay nuclear program discussions until after the war ends.
- Lebanese Escalation: The IDF has ordered evacuations in 16 southern Lebanese towns amid ongoing ceasefire violations.
- Energy Surge: Global oil prices have risen more than 60% since the conflict began on February 28.
Diplomatic Deadlock Over Nuclear Terms
A US official stated that President Trump is unhappy with Iran’s most recent peace proposal. The Iranian plan suggests setting aside discussions regarding its nuclear programme until the war is concluded and shipping disputes in the Gulf are resolved.
The US administration maintains that nuclear issues must be addressed from the outset of any agreement. White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales stated that the US has been clear about its “red lines” and will not negotiate through the press.
Meanwhile, Iran’s envoy to the UN, Amir Saeid Iravani, asserted that lasting security in the Persian Gulf requires a permanent cessation of aggression and “credible guarantees” against future attacks.
Conflict Intensifies in Southern Lebanon
The Israeli military has ordered the immediate evacuation of residents in 16 towns and villages in southern Lebanon, directing them toward the Sidon area. The affected locations include Tibnin, Aita al-Jabal, and Deir Qifa, among others.
These orders come as reports emerge of continued Israeli airstrikes and shelling despite a ceasefire that took effect on April 16. At least 40 people have been killed in Lebanon since the ceasefire began.
Israel claims the attacks are necessary for self-defence against Hizbullah violations of the agreement. Hizbullah has responded by stating it will not cease attacks on Israeli troops as long as ceasefire violations continue.
Impact of the US-Iran War on Global Energy
The conflict has caused significant volatility in energy markets, with oil prices increasing by more than 60% since February 28. This surge has led to record profits for some energy firms; Tullow Oil reported securing a record $130 per barrel for an April shipment of oil from Ghana.
Oil giant BP revealed that its underlying replacement cost profit more than doubled in the first quarter, surging 130 per cent to $3.2 billion. Campaigners have criticized these “astronomical profits” while households face soaring fuel prices.
In a slight shift in logistics, the *Mubaraz*, an LNG tanker, has exited the Gulf of Oman for the first time in two months. The shipment is currently passing the southern tip of India and is estimated to arrive in China by May 15.
Strained US-UK Relations
King Charles III and Queen Camilla have arrived in Washington for a four-day state visit to mark the 250th anniversary of US independence. The visit takes place during a period of significant diplomatic strain between the two allies.
The relationship has been pressured by a diplomatic rift over the Iran war and threats of retaliation from President Trump following criticisms of the conflict by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
UK ministers are hopeful that the royal visit will help repair the relationship during one of the most difficult periods for US-UK relations in decades.
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