Washington, May 6: US President Donald Trump on Wednesday issued a fresh warning to Iran, threatening stronger military action if Tehran refuses to reopen the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, even as reports suggested both sides were moving closer to a possible agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict.
According to a report by Axios, American and Iranian negotiators are nearing a preliminary one page memorandum of understanding that could pave the way for a broader ceasefire arrangement and future nuclear negotiations. The report, citing US officials and other sources familiar with the talks, stated that Washington is awaiting Iran’s response on several critical issues over the next 48 hours.
The proposed framework is being viewed as the most significant diplomatic progress since the outbreak of hostilities between the two nations. However, officials cautioned that no final agreement has yet been reached.
In a post shared on Truth Social, Trump indicated that the continuation of peace efforts would depend entirely on Iran’s willingness to honour the proposed conditions.
“Assuming Iran agrees to give what has been agreed to, which is perhaps a big assumption, the already legendary Epic Fury will be at an end, and the highly effective blockade will allow the Hormuz Strait to be open to all, including Iran,” Trump wrote.
The US President also warned of severe consequences if Tehran rejects the arrangement.
“If they don’t agree, the bombing starts, and it will be at a much higher level and intensity than it was before,” he said.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most vital maritime oil routes, and any disruption in the region has significant implications for global energy supplies and international trade. The reported understanding between Washington and Tehran is expected to include commitments from Iran to suspend nuclear enrichment activities temporarily, while the United States could ease sanctions and release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets.
The emerging proposal may also involve both countries reducing restrictions linked to shipping movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a key demand from global markets concerned over rising instability in West Asia.
Despite optimism surrounding the talks, sources quoted in the report warned that several provisions would remain conditional until a final and comprehensive agreement is achieved. Analysts believe the current negotiations could either lead to a lasting diplomatic breakthrough or result in a fragile pause in fighting without fully resolving underlying tensions.
The developments come amid growing international concern over the risk of a wider regional conflict, with world powers closely monitoring the outcome of the negotiations between Washington and Tehran.