US President Donald Trump has issued a demand for Iran to surrender amid the expiration of a memorandum of understanding that had been in place to halt hostilities between the two nations. The agreement, established several months prior, had been designed to de-escalate tensions between the United States and Iran during an ongoing five-month conflict involving Israeli forces.
In a Fox News interview, Trump stated that Iran should “put up the white flag of surrender” and characterized Iranian negotiators as skilled but weakening. He also revealed that his administration has established a direct communication channel with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), though he stated he was not prioritizing a swift resolution to the conflict. Trump asserted his administration maintains leverage in the dispute despite acknowledging loss of control over aspects of the situation and noting damage to his political standing.
Trump reiterated that he faces no timeline constraints in reaching an agreement, stating he is “not in a hurry” despite the approach of midterm elections in November where Democrats seek congressional control. He went further by threatening military action against Oman, a US ally, if the nation were to interfere with negotiations regarding reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blockaded. Trump previously suggested declaring the strategically vital waterway part of US territory.
Meanwhile, Iran and Oman have been engaged in discussions regarding maritime navigation protocols. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson indicated the two nations are developing a mechanism intended to protect both countries’ interests while ensuring commercial shipping safety through the strait. Iran’s Foreign Minister stated on Saturday that the country has not yet decided to resume negotiations with the United States.
Both sides have accused each other of violating the expired memorandum since it took effect. Iran has maintained that the Strait of Hormuz “will remain Iranian,” positioning it against Trump’s territorial claims regarding the disputed waterway.
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