United States President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that Iran’s president has requested a ceasefire to end the war. Trump stated he will only consider the offer once the vital waterway is free and clear.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a key sticking point as the month-old conflict continues to disrupt global energy.
The president posted his conditions on Truth Social ahead of a planned televised address tonight. He claimed the Iranian president is less radicalised than his predecessors but maintained a hardline military stance.
Trump warned that the United States would continue its assault until the maritime shipping route was fully restored.
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Global energy and shipping impacts
The conflict has caused massive fluctuations in global energy prices and significant economic turmoil across many nations.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps responded by claiming the Strait of Hormuz is fully under its control. They stated the waterway will not be reopened to enemies through the theatrics of the American president. Meanwhile, an oil tanker in Qatari waters was reportedly hit by a missile attack on Wednesday morning.
Tehran has denied that it requested a ceasefire, according to reports citing an unnamed Iranian official. The Iranian Foreign Minister recently reiterated that the country is not currently looking for a ceasefire negotiation. There is also uncertainty regarding whether the Iranian president has the authority to speak for the regime.
Trump also criticised NATO members for what he described as lackluster support for the war effort. He referred to the defensive military alliance as a paper tiger in multiple media interviews today. The president indicated he is considering a withdrawal from the alliance during his address to the nation.
Image credit: Getty Images.
