The US military fired on an Iranian-flagged oil tanker on Wednesday, disabling its rudder, shortly after President Donald Trump issued a fresh ultimatum to Tehran. Trump demanded Iran accept a deal to end the war or face a new wave of US bombing at a much higher level of intensity.
US Central Command said the fighter fired several rounds to stop the tanker breaching the US blockade of Iranian ports. The attack followed Trump's social media announcement that the military operation 'Epic Fury' would end if Iran agreed to terms, but bombing would resume if it did not.
Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, remained defiant, accusing Washington of seeking surrender through a naval blockade and economic pressure. Meanwhile, Axios reported that Washington and Tehran were close to agreeing a one-page memorandum of understanding to end the war, with a response expected within 48 hours.
Trump had earlier paused a naval effort to guide stranded ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing requests from Pakistan. Over 800 ships and 20,000 crew remain stranded, with Iran threatening mines and missiles. France's aircraft carrier group is moving into the Red Sea for a potential joint mission with the UK.
Analysts suggest Trump may seek a breakthrough before his visit to Beijing next week. China has called for a ceasefire but has failed to exert significant leverage over Iran since the war began.
