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Trump escalates rhetoric amid stalled negotiations
US President Donald Trump has issued a stark ultimatum to Iran, warning that time is running out for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict. In a post on Truth Social, Trump declared, "They better get moving, FAST, or there won't be anything left of them. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!" The statement followed a Sunday call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as reported by the Times of Israel, citing Netanyahu's office.
Iran accuses US of lacking compromise
Iranian media outlets have reported that the US has failed to offer meaningful concessions in response to Tehran's latest proposals to end the war. According to the semi-official Mehr news agency, Washington's intransigence risks creating an "impasse in the negotiations."
Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for Iran's foreign ministry, defended Tehran's demands as "responsible" and "generous." Reports from Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency outlined key conditions, including an immediate end to hostilities on all fronts-referencing ongoing Israeli strikes against Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon-a lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports, and guarantees against future attacks on Iran. Additional demands included compensation for war damages and recognition of Iranian sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.
US counters with nuclear programme demands
Iran's semi-official Fars news agency reported on Sunday that the US had presented five conditions in response to Tehran's proposal. Among them was a requirement that Iran limit its nuclear operations to a single site and transfer its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to the US.
Trump appeared to soften the US stance on Friday, suggesting he would accept a 20-year suspension of Iran's nuclear programme-a significant shift from the previous demand for a complete termination. This adjustment addresses a major point of contention between the two nations.
Ceasefire holds despite sporadic violence
US and Israeli forces launched extensive airstrikes on Iran on 28 February, but a ceasefire established in early April to facilitate negotiations has largely held, despite occasional skirmishes. Iran has maintained control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global energy supplies, citing retaliation for US and Israeli attacks. The blockade has disrupted the flow of approximately 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas, driving up global prices.
The US, meanwhile, has enforced a naval blockade on Iranian ports to pressure Tehran into accepting its terms. Pakistan has acted as a mediator in the talks, but significant gaps remain between the two sides.
Regional and global implications
The ongoing standoff has heightened tensions across the Middle East, with economic repercussions felt worldwide. Analysts warn that further escalation could destabilise energy markets and exacerbate geopolitical risks.
"Supplies have been disrupted, but the situation remains fluid. Both sides must return to the negotiating table to avoid a broader crisis," said an energy market analyst.
