President Donald Trump urges Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions and sign a non-nuclear deal, posting an AI-generated image of himself holding a large assault rifle amid explosions on Truth Social. The caption reads: ‘No more Mr. Nice Guy!’
Trump’s Direct Warning to Tehran
Trump states: ‘Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a nonnuclear deal. They better get smart soon!’ This message accompanies rising tensions as negotiations stall.
Oil Prices Skyrocket
Brent Crude, the global oil benchmark, climbs to $115 per barrel, up more than 3% since early morning. West Texas Intermediate, the U.S. benchmark, exceeds $103, surpassing recent highs amid fears of prolonged conflict.
Extended Blockade Strategy
The president directs his team to prepare for a prolonged blockade targeting Iran’s finances. This approach aims to weaken Tehran’s negotiating position by crippling its economy. Officials note the blockade already hampers oil storage and sales, intensifying economic pressure.
Iran’s Proposal and U.S. Response
Iran recently submits a plan to ease restrictions in exchange for lifted port blockades, with discussions continuing on its nuclear program. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio describes the proposal as ‘better than what we thought they were going to submit’ but emphasizes any deal must ‘definitively prevent them from sprinting towards a nuclear weapon.’
Iranian Defense Ministry spokesman Reza Talaei-Nik counters that Washington ‘must abandon its illegal and irrational demands,’ asserting the U.S. ‘no longer holds a position to dictate its policy to independent nations.’
Global Concerns Mount
Qatar warns of a potential ‘frozen conflict’ without a resolution. Stalled peace efforts, including the cancellation of U.S. envoys’ trip to Pakistan last weekend, fuel market unease. Brent Crude now trades above pre-ceasefire levels from early April, while West Texas Intermediate crosses $100 for the first time in two weeks.
