US President Donald Trump has again threatened Iran, stating that a new wave of American strikes could be launched within days unless Tehran agrees to a deal to end the Middle East conflict. Speaking on Tuesday, Trump said he was 'an hour away' from ordering attacks that would have broken the ceasefire in place since early April, but pulled back after a fresh peace proposal from Iran, transmitted via Pakistani mediators.
Trump claimed Iranian leaders were 'begging' for a deal, but warned that a new US attack would deliver 'a big hit' if an agreement was not reached by the weekend or early next week. He cited concerns over Iran's nuclear programme, saying 'we can't let them have a new nuclear weapon'. The threats come amid a deadlock, with analysts noting that both sides want to avoid further hostilities but are unwilling to make the concessions needed for peace.
Iran has remained defiant, with military spokesperson Mohammed Akraminia reiterating Tehran's control over the Strait of Hormuz and warning that any new attacks would prompt Iran to 'open new fronts'. Since the ceasefire, which halted direct US-Iranian fighting, only one round of talks has been held, an unsuccessful 21-hour session in Islamabad. Pakistani mediators have complained that both sides are 'changing their goalposts'.
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which carries roughly a fifth of the world's oil supply, has driven up global oil prices and heightened fears of a worldwide recession. White House officials are concerned that the conflict, unpopular with US voters, could hurt Republican prospects in upcoming congressional elections, especially amid rising living costs. Iran's economy continues to deteriorate under sanctions and a naval blockade.
