President Trump declared on Wednesday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would align with his wishes regarding Iran, stating, “He’ll do whatever I want him to do.” Trump also emphasized his lack of urgency in reaching a deal to end the ongoing conflict, remarking, “I’m in no hurry.” These comments came amidst escalating tensions and diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.
The President revealed he had been “an hour away” from ordering new strikes on Iran on Monday evening but halted the plans at the request of Persian Gulf allies, who cited progress in peace talks. He warned that while he was willing to wait for Iran’s response, he wouldn’t do so indefinitely, hinting at “nasty things” if a deal isn’t reached quickly.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a stern warning, threatening to expand the war “beyond the region” if the U.S. or Israel resumed attacks, promising “crushing blows.” Iran announced it is reviewing the latest U.S. peace proposals, with Pakistan actively mediating between Washington and Tehran. Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir is expected in Tehran to continue these efforts.
Other significant developments include Iran’s newly-created Persian Gulf Strait Authority releasing a map of its “controlled maritime zone” in the Strait of Hormuz, demanding coordination and fees for passage. The U.S. military, through CENTCOM, reported redirecting 91 commercial ships under its blockade of Iranian ports and boarding an Iranian-flagged tanker.
Globally, oil prices plunged by over 5% on hopes of a U.S.-Iran deal. China and Russia condemned U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran, with Chinese President Xi Jinping calling for a “comprehensive ceasefire.” The UN also warned of a possible global food price crisis due to the Strait of Hormuz blockage. Domestically, the U.S. Senate advanced a resolution for the first time to limit President Trump’s war powers in Iran.
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