Washington: US President Donald Trump has declared the ceasefire agreement with Iran to be on ‘massive life support,’ criticizing Tehran’s recent response to US proposals as ‘a piece of garbage.’ Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump expressed his discontent with the Iranian reply received through Pakistani mediators, describing the situation as ‘unbelievably weak.’

According to Anadolu Agency, the response from Tehran was delayed by four days and initially included broad assurances regarding nuclear activities, which were subsequently withdrawn. Trump likened the state of the ceasefire to a critical medical condition, suggesting it had a mere ‘1% chance of living.’ The remarks come amid heightened tensions as diplomatic efforts face significant hurdles.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf responded by asserting Iran’s readiness to deliver a ‘memorable lesson’ to any aggression. Qalibaf’s statement, posted on the social media platform X, emphasized the preparedness of Iran’s armed forces for all scenarios. The comments followed Trump’s rejection of Iran’s response to the US proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.

Meanwhile, the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, UNIFIL, has reported a substantial uptick in military activity, with over 1,296 Israeli military strikes recorded in just three days. A UN spokesperson highlighted ongoing incidents restricting the movement of peacekeepers, underscoring the tense and volatile situation in the region.

In related news, the US military has redirected 62 commercial vessels attempting entry or exit from Iranian ports as part of a naval blockade targeting Iranian maritime activities. Additionally, South Korea will join multinational defense talks concerning the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway recently targeted in an attack on a South Korean-operated vessel.

Australia has imposed new sanctions on Iranian officials and entities, accusing them of human rights violations. These measures reflect international concerns over Iran’s domestic policies and actions on the global stage.