US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran’s new leadership has requested a ceasefire amid the ongoing conflict, even as hostilities continue to intensify in the region.
In a strongly worded post on Truth Social, Trump said Washington would consider Tehran’s request only under a key condition the reopening of the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz.
“Iran’s New Regime President… has just asked the United States of America for a CEASEFIRE!” Trump wrote, adding that any pause in fighting would depend on whether the vital oil route is made “open, free, and clear.”
Hormuz Reopening Set as Key Condition
Trump tied the possibility of a ceasefire directly to the status of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit chokepoint through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.
“We will consider when Hormuz Strait is open, free, and clear,” he said, making it clear that no truce would be entertained unless maritime movement resumes without disruption.
The statement underscores Washington’s strategic priority to restore stability in global energy flows amid mounting economic concerns.
‘Blasting Iran’: Trump Warns of Continued Strikes
Even as he referenced a possible ceasefire, Trump issued a stark warning, stating that US military operations would continue until its conditions are met.
“Until then, we are blasting Iran into oblivion… back to the Stone Ages,” he said, signalling no immediate de-escalation on the battlefield.
The remarks highlight a hardline stance, blending conditional diplomacy with aggressive military messaging.
Iran Denies Talks, Signals Prolonged War
Trump’s claims stand in sharp contrast to statements from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who has denied any ongoing negotiations with Washington.
Araghchi stated that Iran is prepared to sustain the conflict for “at least six months” and would defend itself “to whatever extent necessary,” suggesting Tehran is bracing for a prolonged confrontation.
He also noted that while indirect messages from US envoy Steve Witkoff continue, they do not amount to formal negotiations.
Mixed Signals on US Exit Timeline
Adding to the uncertainty, Trump indicated that the United States may exit the conflict “very soon,” possibly within two to three weeks.
Speaking from the Oval Office, he said US forces are “finishing the job” before withdrawing, while also hinting that a deal with Iran remains possible before that timeline.
The shifting rhetoric reflects ongoing ambiguity over whether Washington intends to escalate or wind down its military involvement.
Global Economic Shockwaves Intensify
The conflict has already triggered significant economic fallout, largely driven by tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
Oil markets have been volatile, with global energy prices reacting sharply to disruptions in the region. In the United States, gasoline prices have surged past $4 a gallon, while European economies are grappling with rising inflation.
However, optimism following Trump’s remarks about a possible end to the war briefly eased oil prices and lifted stock markets across Europe and Asia.
Israel Signals Continued Offensive
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that Israel’s military campaign against Iran is far from over.
“The campaign is not over… we will continue to crush the terror regime,” Netanyahu said, indicating that Israeli strikes could continue even if the US scales back its role.
Uncertain Path Ahead
With conflicting claims, no confirmed negotiations, and continued military escalation, the path to de-escalation remains unclear.
While Trump asserts that Iran has requested a ceasefire, Tehran’s public stance suggests otherwise, leaving the world watching closely as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz continue to shape both geopolitical and economic outcomes.
Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience reporting on Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes journalism plays a crucial role in amplifying unheard voices and bringing attention to issues that truly matter. Sofia has contributed articles to The New Indian Express, Youth Ki Awaaz, and Maktoob Media. She is also a recipient of the 2025 Laadli Media Awards for gender sensitivity. Beyond the newsroom, she is a music enthusiast who enjoys singing. Connect with Sofia on X: https://x.com/SBCism
