President Trump issued a stark warning to Iran on Saturday, demanding the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz or face severe military consequences. 'Time is running out - 48 hours before all Hell will reign down on them,' Trump wrote on Truth Social, reiterating his earlier ultimatum to Tehran.
Negotiations Stalled
Over the past ten days, indirect negotiations mediated by Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey have sought to broker a ceasefire in exchange for reopening the crucial waterway. However, sources close to the talks confirm that Iran has refused temporary ceasefires, instead demanding a permanent end to hostilities and guarantees against future U.S. attacks.
'If it's not clear to Iran and others by now that President Trump means what he says, then I don't know when it will ever be,' Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) said after speaking with Trump.
Mediation Efforts Continue
Vice President Vance and Iran's Speaker of Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf have spearheaded the indirect talks, with Pakistani military chief Field Marshal Asim Munir mediating. White House envoy Steve Witkoff and foreign ministers from Iran, Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt are also involved, but sources indicate that Iran remains unwilling to engage directly.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global shipping route, and its closure has already disrupted oil markets. With Monday's deadline looming, mediators are now exploring confidence-building measures to pave the way for direct discussions. However, the prospects of a diplomatic breakthrough remain uncertain.