Iran Rejects U.S. Cease-fire Proposal as 'One-Sided,' Demands Unfreezing of Assets and End to Maritime Blockades

The Iranian government has officially stated that it cannot accept the recent cease-fire proposal from the United States, labeling it as one-sided, according to Iran's state-run IRIB broadcaster.
Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in a press conference on May 11 (local time) that "our demands are not excessive, but entirely legitimate." He made it clear that the unfreezing of Iranian assets held in foreign banks is a prerequisite for any negotiations.
He also characterized the U.S. seizure of Iranian oil tankers as "piracy," asserting, "The U.S. must stop the war and first cease its illegal economic blockades and acts of piracy."
Regarding the U.S. demand for the full opening of the Strait of Hormuz as a condition for a cease-fire, he countered that Iran has also put forward its own proposals for the safe passage of vessels through the strait.
"Ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and establishing security in the region and Lebanon are among Iran's other requirements," Baghaei said, adding, "This is considered a generous and responsible proposal for regional security."
He further criticized the U.S., stating, "Despite this, the U.S. continues to make one-sided claims."
The U.S. had previously sent a proposal to Iran aimed at ending the conflict.
In relation to this, the U.S. online media outlet Axios reported on May 6 that the two countries were close to signing a one-page memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a cease-fire.
However, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on the social media platform Truth Social the previous day, "I just read the response from Iran's so-called 'representatives.' I don't like it. It is completely unacceptable."
(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.