Iran war: Tehran reportedly rejects ceasefire proposal

Regional mediators have proposed a ceasefire, but Tehran has dismissed the idea, according to IRNA news agency. The proposal comes as Iran continues its efforts to end the ongoing conflict permanently. The state media highlighted that the plan included ten specific demands, such as resolving regional tensions and ensuring safe passage through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Israeli strikes on Iranian facilities

Israel launched attacks on critical petrochemical sites, causing significant disruptions. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the strikes inflicted a “severe economic blow” on Iran, targeting its largest petrochemical complex at Asaluyeh. This facility contributes approximately 50% of the country’s petrochemical output. A similar strike was reported earlier in March, which Iran retaliated by damaging a Qatari gas plant.

“We only accept an end of the war with guarantees that we won’t be attacked again,” said Mojtaba Ferdousi Pour, representing Iran’s diplomatic mission in Cairo, as reported by The Associated Press.

IAEA confirms strikes near nuclear plant

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that US-Israeli air strikes had affected Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant. One bomb landed just 75 meters from the plant’s perimeter, according to the agency. Iranian officials noted that the attack killed a security personnel member and damaged a nearby structure, though the plant itself remained intact.

Iran’s nuclear energy authority head, Mohammad Eslami, criticized the IAEA for its delayed response. In a letter to IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, Eslami accused the organization of failing to act decisively, calling the inaction “emboldens aggression” and warning of potential radioactive leaks. He emphasized that the strikes violated international law and required stronger intervention.

Bushehr facility and geopolitical context

Located on the Persian Gulf, Iran’s sole nuclear power plant is situated about 760 kilometers south of Tehran, near Kuwait and Kharg Island. The Russian-built reactor has been operational since 2011, with Rosatom reportedly constructing a second unit. US President Donald Trump had previously threatened to claim the island, adding to the tension in the region.

Iran’s Fars news agency reported blasts at a refinery in Asaluyeh, a hub for the country’s gas industry. The area is part of the South Pars field, the world’s largest natural gas reserve, supplying around 70% of Iran’s total gas. The recent strikes have further escalated the conflict, with Israel targeting key infrastructure to weaken Iran’s economic and energy capabilities.