Ceasefire on “Life Support”? Trump Warns Iran Standoff Could Reignite

President Trump is openly questioning whether the fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran can survive, warning that tensions in the Middle East could once again spiral toward open conflict.

Speaking Monday in Washington, Trump sharply criticized Iran’s latest response to U.S.-backed peace proposals, calling the document “totally unacceptable” and describing the ceasefire as being “on life support.” He suggested Tehran’s demands have severely weakened the chances for a lasting diplomatic breakthrough.

According to reports, Iran’s proposal included demands for war reparations, sweeping sanctions relief, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and recognition of Tehran’s authority over the strategic Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.

Trump, speaking with reporters at the White House during events tied to National Police Week, compared the ceasefire to a critically ill patient with “about a one percent chance of survival.” Despite the tough rhetoric, he said diplomacy remains possible, although confidence appears to be fading rapidly.

Behind the scenes, Trump reportedly convened a high-level national security meeting with Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and special envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss next steps as fears of renewed military action grow.

Iranian officials responded defiantly. Parliamentary speaker and negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned on social media that Iran’s armed forces were “prepared for all options” and would answer any aggression with force.

At the center of the dispute remains Iran’s nuclear program and control of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes. Rising uncertainty has already rattled global energy markets, with oil prices climbing as investors fear another military escalation in the region.

For now, the ceasefire technically remains in place — but the increasingly sharp language from both Washington and Tehran suggests the calm may be weaker than ever.