Donald Trump has warned that the United States could launch a fresh wave of strikes against Iran within days unless Tehran agrees to significant concessions, saying he was “an hour away” from ordering an attack before pulling back. The US president said Iran’s leaders were “begging” for a deal, but warned that a resumption of hostilities would deliver “a big hit”.
The threat comes despite a ceasefire in place since 8 April, with only a single round of talks held so far. Iran recently submitted a new peace proposal via Pakistani mediators, who have been shuttling between the two sides. Trump said the decision to hold off was also influenced by allies including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, which are reluctant to see the conflict resume.
Iranian officials have remained defiant, with military spokesperson Mohammed Akraminia insisting Tehran would continue to manage the Strait of Hormuz and warning of “new fronts” against US forces if attacked. Iran has announced the formation of a Persian Gulf Strait Authority and threatened to impose permits on internet fibre optic cables passing through the waterway.
Iran’s latest proposal, as described in state media, calls for an end to hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon, the withdrawal of US forces from areas near Iran, and reparations for destruction caused by US-Israeli attacks. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi also demanded sanctions relief, the release of frozen funds and an end to the US naval blockade. Trump previously dismissed an earlier version of the offer as “garbage”.
The standoff has sent oil prices soaring and raised fears of a global recession. Analysts say both sides are stuck. “Trump’s threats have lost all credibility … Both sides are too far apart in terms of what they are willing to accept or work on but neither side want to go back to war,” said Neil Quilliam of London’s Chatham House. White House officials are also concerned that the conflict could hurt Republican chances in upcoming congressional elections.
