Trump sets deadline as West Asia war intensifies, warns Iran of consequences
Washington: The ongoing conflict in West Asia has entered its fifth week, significantly escalating tensions across the region. Amid growing global concern, former US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Iran, stating that Tehran will have to “pay a heavy price” if it fails to respond positively to US demands.
Reiterating his aggressive stance, Trump said the final deadline set for Iran to act will end on Tuesday. “If they do what needs to be done, the war can end very quickly. The counter-proposal from Iran is crucial, but they are not responding as expected,” he stated, underlining Washington’s impatience over the stalled negotiations.
Trump emphasized that the primary objective of the United States remains unchanged — preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. “Our goal is clear. Iran must not possess nuclear weapons under any circumstances,” he asserted, adding that continued defiance from Tehran could lead to severe consequences.
A key point of contention continues to be the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global oil supply. The US has been mounting pressure on Iran to ensure that the waterway remains open and secure. Trump warned that failure to comply could result in targeted strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure and critical civilian facilities.
According to reports, the deadline has been set for 8:00 PM Tuesday (5:30 AM IST Wednesday), raising fears of imminent escalation if diplomatic efforts fail. The situation has put global markets on edge, given the Strait of Hormuz’s role in transporting nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil.
Meanwhile, international efforts are underway to de-escalate tensions. Reports suggest that discussions are ongoing between the United States and Iran for a possible 45-day ceasefire. Countries like Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are said to be playing a mediatory role in facilitating dialogue between the two sides.
Despite these diplomatic moves, the situation remains volatile, with both nations maintaining hardline positions. Any further escalation could have far-reaching implications, not only for regional stability but also for the global economy.
