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, Following Tehran’s Request
Donald Trump, the U.S. President, has announced a 10-day extension of Iran’s deadline to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports linked to Tehran’s request. This shift comes as discussions between the two sides continue, with Trump expressing confidence in the progress made, despite criticism from the media.
“Negotiations are in progress, and despite misleading claims by the media and others, the talks are moving forward positively,” he stated on his Truth Social platform.
Earlier, Trump had set a 48-hour ultimatum for Iran, warning that failure to reopen the vital waterway would lead to the destruction of all of the country’s energy infrastructure. During a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, he emphasized that Tehran was eager to negotiate, countering claims that the Islamic republic had shown resistance to a peace proposal.
Steve Witkoff, Trump’s envoy, confirmed that Washington had transmitted a 15-point “action list” to Tehran via Pakistani officials. He noted that there were “clear indications” of Iran’s willingness to engage, suggesting the proposal marked a pivotal moment with limited alternatives for the country.
Meanwhile, Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid raised concerns about the war’s toll, stating for the first time that the government was overextending the military. “The IDF is stretched to the limit and beyond. The government is leaving the army wounded out on the battlefield,” he warned, aligning with remarks from military chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir.
“The government is sending the army into a multi-front war without a strategy, without the necessary means, and with far too few soldiers,” Lapid added.
In a televised briefing, Israeli military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin highlighted the need for more combat forces on the Lebanese front, stating that the forward defensive zone required additional troops.
The Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that Tehran’s response to the U.S. 15-point plan was officially submitted through intermediaries the previous night. Citing an unnamed official, Tasnim noted Iran’s demands included an end to attacks on its forces and the respect of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, conditions more expansive than those outlined in the American proposal.
Trump also hinted at potential U.S. control of Iran’s oil, drawing a parallel to the arrangement with Venezuela after the ousting of Nicolás Maduro. “Taking control of Iran’s oil is an option,” he remarked, showing no sign of urgency in securing a deal.
