Former US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Iran had requested a ceasefire, but he ruled out any truce until the Strait of Hormuz was reopened for energy shipments. The announcement comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following strikes between the US, Israel, and Iran-backed forces.
Trump confirmed that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had requested a ceasefire, stating that negotiations would only be considered once the Hormuz Strait was “open, free, and clear.” He emphasized that until then, military pressure on Iran would continue. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping lane through which one-fifth of the world’s oil passes.
The White House announced that Trump would deliver a prime-time national address at 9:00 pm local time, marking his first major speech since the conflict began. Earlier, Trump said the war could end in “two to three weeks” if conditions were met.
Iran has denied ongoing negotiations and launched new missile strikes on Israel and US-allied Gulf nations. AFP journalists reported massive explosions in Tehran, including hits near former US embassy sites. Iranian media also reported damage to steel complexes in central and southwest Iran.
In retaliation, Israel confirmed strikes on Tehran and ongoing operations in Lebanon. The Lebanese health ministry reported seven deaths in south Beirut, including a senior Hezbollah commander. Israel has also intercepted missiles from Yemen fired by Iran-backed Houthi rebels.
Trump’s comments have had an immediate impact on global markets. Optimism about a potential ceasefire briefly lowered oil prices and pushed stock markets higher. However, uncertainty over the Hormuz Strait and continued regional strikes has kept energy prices high worldwide.
The Trump administration continues to push for reopening the strait and has coordinated with international allies to discuss measures. Despite Trump’s claims, Iran insists it is not in formal negotiations, and regional instability continues to affect global energy markets.
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Trump’s firm stance underscores the US commitment to protecting international energy routes while keeping pressure on Iran to comply with global security demands.
