Tension continues in West Asia. The ongoing war between Iran, America and Israel has entered its 37th day. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts have intensified regarding a possible 45-day ceasefire amid the ongoing tension between Iran and America. According to the report of Axios news outlet, serious talks are going on between America, Iran and regional mediator countries on this proposal, which is being considered an important step towards ending the war. According to sources, these talks are taking place under the mediation of Pakistan, Egypt and Türkiye. Besides, communication is also continuing between senior officials of both sides through direct messages. The report further said that the chances of an agreement being reached in the next 48 hours are slim. However, this is being considered as a last ditch effort to prevent the war from escalating further.
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Has Trump extended the deadline for Iran?
US President Donald Trump on Sunday extended by 24 hours his self-imposed deadline for Iran to reach a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face devastating attacks. He said in the post, “Tuesday, 8:00 PM Eastern Time!” This post came hours after his message in which Trump warned Iran that if the Strait of Hormuz was not opened immediately, Iran’s energy bases could be attacked. Using very aggressive language, he indicated that America could take tough military steps.
Hormuz closure, impact around the world
Indeed, Iran has effectively closed the shipping lanes of the Strait of Hormuz since the beginning of the US-Israeli bombing campaign on February 28. This route is an important one for the world’s oil and gas. Due to the blockade, many countries are facing fuel and gas crisis. That is causing oil prices to rise around the world and, in turn, putting pressure on Trump in the crucial midterm election year in the US.
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What did President Trump say?
Donald Trump has not held any public events since addressing the nation on Wednesday. He held a series of brief interviews with media outlets after announcing the dramatic rescue of a US airman and issuing an expletive-laden warning to the Islamic Republic. He confirmed the new timing in an interview with The Wall Street Journal. “Our position is very strong. It will take Iran 20 years to rebuild, if they’re lucky, if their country survives. And if they don’t do something by Tuesday evening, they’ll have no power plants left, and no bridges left standing,” he told the Journal on Sunday. He told Fox News that he believed there was a good chance of a deal with Iran on Monday. He added, “If they don’t come to an agreement as soon as possible, I’m considering blowing everything up and taking over the oil.”