Armistice talks stuck in limbo, Trump issues ultimatum to Iran

By emmitt barryWorthy News Washington DC Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – US President Donald Trump on Monday issued a stern ultimatum to Iran, warning that failure to reach a ceasefire agreement in the coming days would lead to a widespread and devastating attack on the country’s critical infrastructure.

In a forceful statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said the United States is engaged in “serious discussions with a new, and more reasonable, regime” in Tehran, expressing optimism that an agreement could soon be reached. However, he made it clear that time is running out.

“If for any reason a deal is not reached soon… and if the Strait of Hormuz is not immediately ‘open for business,’ we will… completely destroy all of their power generation plants, oil wells, and Kharag Island,” Trump warned.

The president described the possible attacks as retaliation for decades of Iranian aggression, which he described as a 47-year “reign of terrorism” by the Islamic Republic.

The “finishing blow” strategy is emerging

Trump’s comments point to a possible shift to what officials describe as a “final blow” strategy — targeting Iran to paralyze its ability to recover its economic backbone. Major infrastructure, including energy production and desalination facilities, has so far been deliberately spared by US forces.

Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump emphasized that both the military and diplomatic efforts are moving forward together.

“We destroyed several targets in Iran today. We are negotiating with them directly and indirectly,” he said. He said that Tehran has already accepted most of America’s demands. “We asked for 15 things… They agreed with us on the plan.”

Although the President did not confirm a ground attack, he reiterated that “all options remain on the table” as additional US troops continue to be deployed to the region.

Iran retreats, considers nuclear exit

Iranian officials reacted sharply, dismissing Washington’s proposals as “unrealistic, illogical and excessive.” Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghai stressed that Tehran is focusing on defending itself against US and Israeli aggression.

In a troubling development, Iran’s parliament is reportedly reviewing a possible withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) – a move that would raise global concerns over its nuclear ambitions.

The United States and Israel have made the destruction of Iran’s nuclear capabilities a central condition of any ceasefire agreement.

Proxy forces increase regional tensions

Meanwhile, Iran-backed groups are intensifying clashes across the region. Hezbollah has launched sustained rocket and drone attacks against northern Israel, while Yemen’s Houthi rebels have recently moved into the region with ballistic missile attacks.

Iranian Quds Force commander Ismail Qaani declared that these actions were helping to shape a “new regional order”, underscoring Tehran’s continued reliance on proxy warfare.

Rubio urges caution amid optimism

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio dashed hopes, warning that diplomacy could ultimately fail despite ongoing talks.

“We have to be prepared for the possibility that this effort may not succeed,” Rubio said. He said entrenched elements within Iran’s leadership remain opposed to peace.

Oil market is showing signs of increasing concern

Global markets appear skeptical that a diplomatic solution is on the horizon. Oil prices continued to rise on Monday, reflecting fears of a surge in energy supplies and potential disruption – especially if the dispute over the Strait of Hormuz persists.

Nevertheless, US officials insist that preparations are underway to ensure freedom of navigation through the vital waterway, even if military escort is required.

a decisive moment in the conflict

As talks continue under increasing pressure, the coming days could prove decisive in determining whether the conflict moves toward a resolution – or escalates into a broader regional conflict.

lift it up in prayer

10

People are praying right now.

latest lol news