Trump extends deadline for Iran to open Strait of Hormuz, reportedly after request from Tehran
Trump Extends Deadline for Iran to Open Strait of Hormuz, Reports Suggest Tehran’s Request Influenced Decision
Donald Trump, the U.S. president, announced plans to delay Iran’s requirement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by an additional ten days. According to reports, this decision followed a formal appeal from the Iranian government. In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump emphasized that negotiations remain active, dismissing “false reports from the media” that suggested otherwise. He claimed discussions were progressing smoothly despite earlier setbacks.
Previously, Trump had warned Iran with a 48-hour ultimatum to restore access to the critical waterway or face the destruction of its energy facilities. During a Cabinet session earlier in the week, he insisted Iran was eager to reach an agreement, even as the Islamic republic had shown hesitation in accepting the American peace initiative. Steve Witkoff, Trump’s representative, confirmed that Washington had shared a detailed 15-point plan with Tehran via Pakistani officials, signaling a shift in diplomatic strategy.
“We will see where things lead, and if we can convince Iran that this is the inflection point with no good alternatives for them, other than more death and destruction,” Witkoff remarked.
Trump also addressed media speculation about his urgency to secure a deal, stating, “I read a story today that I’m desperate to make a deal. I’m the opposite of desperate. I don’t care.” During a 90-minute televised session at the White House, he oscillated between threatening to “eliminate” Iran and asserting the country was nearing surrender.
Meanwhile, Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid raised concerns about the war’s toll on his nation’s military. “The IDF is stretched to the limit and beyond. The government is leaving the army wounded out on the battlefield,” he said, marking the first time he publicly criticized the administration’s approach. This echoed earlier remarks from military chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, who warned of the lack of a coherent strategy and insufficient resources for a multi-front conflict.
Israeli military spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin added, “On the Lebanese front, the forward defensive zone we are creating requires additional IDF forces… For that, more combat soldiers are needed in the IDF.” As tensions mounted, Iran’s news agency Tasnim stated that its official response to the U.S. 15-point proposal had been submitted the previous night through intermediaries. The reply called for an end to attacks on Iran and its regional allies, including Lebanon’s Hezbollah, while demanding compensation for damages and recognition of Iran’s sovereignty over the strait.
