US rejects Iran's war-end proposal as negotiators sought sanctions relief

The Trump administration rejected Iran's proposal to end the ongoing war, with UN Ambassador Mike Waltz saying Iranian negotiators "were asking for everything up front" and not negotiating in good faith. Waltz told CNN that Iran sought relief from billions of dollars in sanctions tied to an economic blockade aimed at stopping attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. He cited Iran's violation of a June memorandum of understanding signed in Pakistan. Iranian officials insisted diplomacy remains viable, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi saying Tehran is prepared for war but ready for talks. President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated Iran's willingness to discuss its nuclear program while rejecting "bullying or coercion."