U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he is extending until April 6 the deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of possible strikes on Iranian power plants if it fails to comply.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that, “at the request of the Iranian government,” he had decided to extend the deadline by 10 days, now expiring at 8:00 p.m. Washington time on April 6 (00:00 GMT on April 7).
“Talks are ongoing and, despite incorrect statements spread by some media outlets that propagate fake news, they are progressing very well,” the U.S. leader added.
Trump had issued the ultimatum last week, demanding that Iran fully reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz—through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes—or face attacks on its energy infrastructure.
Read more about this topic: Iran War: Trump urges Tehran to “take things seriously before it’s too late”
The original deadline was set for Monday and later extended to Friday, as both sides reportedly began negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said any further extension would depend on advice from his key negotiators, including Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law Jared Kushner.
“I don’t know yet. Mr. Witkoff, JD, and Jared will tell me if they think things are on track—and if they’re not, maybe not,” he said.
According to Trump, Iran is “eager to reach a deal” and has allowed around ten oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as a goodwill gesture.
Read more about this topic: Iran War: Trump says Tehran leadership denies negotiations out of fear (with video)
The U.S. government has also presented a 15-point plan to Tehran, via mediation by Pakistan, aimed at ending the war, but Iran has rejected the proposal.
While the White House speaks of ongoing negotiations, the Pentagon is reportedly preparing multiple military intervention scenarios, including the possibility of ground forces, according to Axios.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi criticized Washington’s stance, calling it contradictory—saying the U.S. calls for negotiations while continuing military pressure and deploying additional forces to the region.
