US signals potential military escalation while Iran proposes reopening vital oil route amid stalled nuclear negotiations.
WASHINGTON: A fragile pause in hostilities between the United States and Iran is once again under strain after Donald Trump warned that military strikes could resume if Tehran “misbehaves,” even as diplomatic channels remain open but uncertain.
Speaking before departing Florida, Trump said he had been briefed on a potential agreement framework from Iran but was awaiting its final wording. Despite ongoing backchannel discussions, he expressed skepticism, stating that Iran “had not paid a big enough price” and signaling reluctance to accept the proposal in its current form.
The remarks come at a critical moment, with global markets watching closely as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz — a vital artery for nearly 20% of the world’s oil and gas supply continue to disrupt energy flows and drive up fuel prices.
In a controversial statement, Trump also described recent US naval actions as resembling piracy. Referring to the seizure of an oil-carrying vessel, he said, “We’re like pirates… but we are not playing games,” highlighting Washington’s aggressive enforcement of its blockade on Iranian ports during the recent conflict.
Iran, meanwhile, has responded with both warnings and diplomatic overtures. A senior military spokesperson, Brigadier General Mohammad Jafar Asadi, cautioned that renewed conflict remains “possible,” adding that Tehran has prepared “surprise measures” beyond the expectations of its adversaries.
At the same time, Iranian officials have confirmed submitting a revised proposal through mediators. The plan suggests reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending the US blockade as initial steps, while postponing contentious nuclear negotiations to a later phase. The proposal also reportedly includes demands such as lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, withdrawing US forces from surrounding regions, and securing guarantees against future attacks.
Tehran insists its nuclear program is peaceful and has signaled readiness for diplomacy if Washington adjusts its approach. However, Trump has repeatedly maintained that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains non-negotiable.
The standoff carries significant domestic implications for the United States. Rising gasoline prices, driven by disrupted oil supplies, have added political pressure on the administration ahead of midterm elections. Analysts warn that prolonged instability in the Gulf could trigger broader economic repercussions globally.
Although a ceasefire halted active bombing campaigns weeks ago, both sides appear entrenched in their positions. With competing demands and mutual distrust dominating negotiations, the path to a comprehensive agreement remains uncertain and the risk of renewed conflict looms large.
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