U.S President Donald Trump
US President Donald Trump has issued a fresh ultimatum to Iran, warning that the country could face intensified American airstrikes if it refuses to accept a proposed agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.
In a post on his Truth Social platform on Wednesday, Trump said Iran must agree to previously negotiated terms or face renewed military action under what he described as a “higher level and intensity” bombing campaign.
“Assuming Iran agrees to give what has been agreed to, which is perhaps a big assumption, the already legendary Epic Fury will be at an end,” Trump wrote.
“If they don’t agree, the bombing starts, and it will be, sadly, at a much higher level and intensity than it was before,” he added.
The statement marks another sharp shift in U.S. policy rhetoric, coming amid reports that Washington and Tehran are nearing a preliminary understanding on ending hostilities.
According to multiple international reports, including Axios, U.S. and Iranian negotiators are close to agreeing on a one-page framework document that would lay the groundwork for a broader nuclear and security deal.
The proposed agreement reportedly includes steps toward ending active hostilities, easing sanctions, and reopening key trade routes, including the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, which has been heavily impacted by recent tensions and shipping disruptions.
READ ALSO:
Sources suggest the framework is being facilitated through intermediaries, including Pakistan and other regional actors, as diplomatic backchannels intensify efforts to prevent further escalation.
Trump also announced a temporary suspension of a U.S. military operation aimed at escorting stranded commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
The operation, which he referred to as “Project Freedom,” was paused just a day after its launch, following what he described as “requests from mediator Pakistan and other countries” and signs of progress in negotiations.
“We have mutually agreed that, while the blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom… will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the agreement can be finalized and signed,” Trump stated.
He also confirmed that U.S. restrictions on Iranian ports remain in place, as Tehran continues to enforce its own control measures over the vital shipping corridor.
The developments come amid heightened instability in the Gulf region, where commercial shipping has been repeatedly disrupted by security threats, naval warnings, and retaliatory actions between involved parties.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil supplies passes, has remained a central flashpoint, with rising concerns over energy security and global market stability.
Recent reports indicate that fuel prices have already experienced volatility due to disruptions in maritime traffic and uncertainty over the duration of the crisis.
Despite signs of diplomatic movement, both sides remain far apart on key issues, particularly nuclear restrictions, sanctions relief, and regional security guarantees.
While Trump has suggested that “great progress” has been made toward a final agreement, Iranian officials have yet to publicly confirm acceptance of any framework, with earlier statements indicating reservations about U.S. conditions.
Analysts say the situation remains highly volatile, with diplomacy and military pressure unfolding simultaneously as global stakeholders watch closely for the next development.
CNN Founder Ted Turner Dies at 87 Media entrepreneur and philanthropist Ted Turner, founder of…
Sultan of Sokoto Dismisses Islamisation Claims, Calls for Unity in Nigeria The Sultan of Sokoto…
French Vessel Attacked in Strait of Hormuz, Crew Injured A French shipping company, CMA CGM,…
Wike Slams Fubara Over Budget Delay, Accuses Him of Prioritising 2027 Ambition The Minister of…
FG Bans Honorary Degree Holders from Using “Dr” Title The Federal Government has formally banned…
Desperate Politicians Behind Plateau Killings — Mutfwang Governor Caleb Mutfwang has alleged that the recurring…