NPR News: 05-11-2026 1AM EDT

President Trump criticized Iran's response to a U.S. proposal for ending the Middle East war as unacceptable, amid ongoing mediation by Pakistan. This NPR News Now update also covers rising gas prices, a potential federal fuel tax suspension, concerns over a Hantavirus outbreak, public support for congressional age limits, and Trump's upcoming state visit to China.

Iran's Stance in Ceasefire Talks

Iran relayed its response to the latest U.S. proposal through Pakistan, maintaining consistency with prior positions. Tehran expressed readiness to extend the ceasefire—largely holding since early April—in return for the U.S. and allies opening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping chokepoint, and halting hostilities that began February 28 with Israeli and U.S. airstrikes on Iran. State-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting emphasized this as a firm line. Trump aired his dissatisfaction on social media Sunday, highlighting stalled progress. The talks matter because the Strait's partial closure has disrupted energy flows; Iran's potential nuclear weapon is seen by the administration as the world's top threat to global energy stability, contributing to U.S. gas prices rising 8 cents per gallon over the past week.