Trump says Iran deal will come only on US terms as tensions persist
By Sabeeh Zunair :
United States President Donald Trump has said any agreement with Iran would only be reached when it suits Washington, warning that time is running out for Tehran despite ongoing diplomatic uncertainty.
Speaking on Thursday, Trump claimed the United States had the upper hand following the conflict, adding that while Washington could afford to wait, Iran could not. He also asserted, without evidence, that the US had “total control” over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian leaders strongly rejected suggestions of internal divisions, presenting a united front in response to Washington’s claims. President Masoud Pezeshkian dismissed talk of factions within the leadership, saying the country remained unified under its political and religious leadership. Similar statements were echoed by Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who stressed coordination between military and diplomatic efforts.
The latest exchange comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf, where both sides have taken aggressive steps. Iranian forces have tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments, while the US has continued maritime enforcement operations targeting vessels linked to Iran.
Iranian state media broadcast footage showing commandos boarding a commercial vessel, underscoring Tehran’s ability to disrupt shipping lanes. Reports also indicated that two container ships were seized and redirected to Iranian ports, while a third vessel was fired upon before continuing its journey.
At the same time, US forces have intercepted multiple Iranian-linked oil tankers in regional waters, part of a broader strategy to enforce sanctions and limit Tehran’s trade routes. Washington has also warned it will take direct action against any vessels suspected of laying mines in the waterway.
Despite the escalating situation, there are tentative signs that diplomacy may continue. Trump has indicated that further talks could take place, although no timeline has been confirmed. Previous negotiations hosted by Pakistan failed to produce a breakthrough, and uncertainty remains over whether both sides will return to the table.
The conflict, which began with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year, has already disrupted global energy markets, with oil prices rising and supply chains under strain. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively constrained, analysts warn that prolonged instability could have far-reaching economic consequences.
For now, both Washington and Tehran appear locked in a standoff — maintaining pressure while leaving the door open, however narrowly, for a negotiated settlement.
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