Trump extends deadline for Iran to open Strait of Hormuz, reportedly after request from Tehran
Trump Extends Deadline for Iran to Open Strait of Hormuz, reportedly after Request from Tehran
Extended Timeline and Negotiation Momentum
US President Donald Trump announced an additional 10-day extension to the deadline for Iran to resume operations at the Strait of Hormuz, following a formal appeal from Tehran. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he emphasized that discussions with Iran were progressing smoothly, despite what he termed “misleading claims” by the media.
“Talks are ongoing and, although the Fake News Media and others have made incorrect reports, the progress remains positive,” Trump stated.
Threats and Diplomatic Signals
Previously, Trump had set a 48-hour ultimatum for Iran to reopen the vital waterway, warning of potential destruction to the country’s energy infrastructure if they failed to comply. During a Cabinet session on Thursday, he clarified that Iran had not been in a state of panic but was “ready to negotiate” an end to hostilities, as confirmed by his envoy Steve Witkoff.
“We will see where things lead, and if we can convince Iran this is the turning point with no better options for them than further devastation,” Witkoff added.
Israeli Leaders Sound Alarm Over War Escalation
Meanwhile, Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid raised concerns about the strain of the conflict, stating that the government was “pushing the military into a multi-front war without a clear strategy.” This echoed warnings from military chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, who had previously noted the IDF’s overextension. At a televised briefing, military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin highlighted the need for more troops to secure positions on the Lebanese front.
Tehran’s Response and Conditional Demands
Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that the country had officially submitted its reply to the US’s 15-point proposal through Pakistani intermediaries. The response called for an end to attacks on Iran and its allied groups in the region, including Hezbollah, and demanded respect for its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. The agency cited conditions that significantly expanded Tehran’s expectations beyond the initial US plan.
Strategic Options and Historical Precedents
Trump also hinted at the possibility of US taking control of Iran’s oil supply, drawing a parallel to the arrangement with Venezuela after the ousting of Nicolás Maduro. “It’s an option,” he said, during a 90-minute televised meeting, where he alternated between issuing threats to “completely eliminate” Iran and asserting that the Islamic republic was “on the verge of surrender.”
Denial of Desperation
When questioned about reports suggesting he was eager to reach a deal, Trump insisted he was “the opposite of desperate,” dismissing concerns that the US was under pressure to compromise. His comments underscored a shift in tone, blending firm resolve with tactical flexibility as negotiations continued.
