Donald Trump has issued a fresh warning to Iran, declaring the country had “better get smart soon” as tensions over nuclear negotiations and maritime security intensified.
Writing on his platform Truth Social early on Wednesday, Trump said Iran was unable to agree to a non-nuclear deal and warned that time was running out.
The message was accompanied by an AI-generated image showing the president holding a gun, with explosions in the background and the phrase: “No More Mr. Nice Guy!”
The remarks come as the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains blockaded, increasing pressure on global energy markets and raising fears of wider disruption.
Negotiations between Washington and Tehran appear to have stalled in recent days. American officials had been expected to travel to Islamabad for further talks last weekend, but the trip was reportedly cancelled by Trump.
Speaking to Fox News, the US president said: “We have all the cards,” adding that if Iran wished to negotiate, it could approach Washington directly.
According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, Tehran has proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz if the United States lifts its blockade of Iranian ports and the current conflict ends.
Reports suggest the Iranian proposal would delay discussions over Tehran’s nuclear programme until a later stage. However, Reuters reported that Trump was dissatisfied with the offer and that the White House was preparing a counterproposal.
Financial markets reacted sharply to the latest developments. West Texas Intermediate crude rose more than 2.8% to $102.75 a barrel, while Brent crude climbed around 3% to $114.62.
Oil prices had already been under pressure after the United Arab Emirates announced it would leave OPEC on 1 May, adding further uncertainty to the global supply outlook.
Analysts warn that continued instability in the Gulf could have major consequences for inflation, transport costs and broader economic growth.
Source: CNBC article
