Trump Considers Delay on Iran Strikes Amid Negotiation Hopes
Potential Delay in Military Action Against Iran
President Donald Trump of the United States may postpone military strikes targeting Iran's infrastructure, including its bridges and power plants, if ongoing negotiations yield positive results, as reported by officials. Trump has set a deadline of 8 PM Eastern Time on Tuesday for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of severe consequences if they fail to comply. He stated, "There will be no bridges, no power plants" if Iran does not act. A senior official noted that the decision ultimately rests with Trump, emphasizing his pivotal role in choosing between diplomatic solutions and military action.
Despite this, a defense official expressed doubts about extending the negotiation period, indicating that time is running out for Iran. The Wall Street Journal also highlighted a pessimistic outlook among negotiators regarding Iran's willingness to meet Trump's demands.
Trump remarked on the urgency of the situation, stating, "This is a critical period... They asked for an extension of seven days; I gave them 10 days... They have till tomorrow. Now we will see what happens... A lot of people are affected by this. We are giving them until tomorrow, 8 o'clock, Eastern Time. After that, they are going to have no bridges. They are going to have no power plants. Stone ages." He acknowledged that he is confronting a "much more powerful Iran" than when the conflict began on February 28, asserting that the U.S. has significantly weakened Iran's capabilities.
Current Status of US-Iran Negotiations
Reports indicate that a proposed framework for negotiations between the U.S. and Iran includes a two-phase plan: an immediate ceasefire lasting approximately 45 days, followed by discussions aimed at establishing a lasting agreement. However, Iranian state media and various international sources claim that Iran has rejected the ceasefire proposal, instead advocating for a permanent cessation of hostilities.