Time running out for Iran, Trump says as deadlock persists

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Project Freedom in the Strait of Hormuz was halted at Pakistan’s request. He stated that the suspension aims to provide space for diplomatic efforts, with President US President Donald Trump emphasizing the priority of negotiation. Meanwhile, President Trump issued another stern warning to Iran, stating that time is running out and immediate action is required, or Iran will face severe consequences. Trump has intensified consultations regarding potential military action, holding recent discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of his national security team. Reports indicate the Pentagon is planning potential targets in Iran’s energy and infrastructure sectors should conflict escalate. Iran Warns of Stronger Retaliation Iranian military spokesperson Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi responded to repeated US threats, warning that any new aggression would be met with stronger retaliatory strikes. He emphasized that US interests and military assets could face unexpected and severe consequences if hostilities resume. In regional developments, Iran has cautioned the United Arab Emirates over deepening ties with Israel. Mohsen Rezaee, Military Secretary to Iran’s Supreme Leader, stated that while Iran has not closed doors to Abu Dhabi, it expects the UAE to understand the limits of Iran’s patience. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi also criticized the UAE for its lack of condemnation during past attacks on Iran and urged the country to reconsider its policy toward Tehran. Recent reports suggest that during past regional conflicts, Israel’s Prime Minister secretly visited the UAE, meeting its president, while UAE remained silent on Iran-related hostilities. These developments underscore rising tensions and the fragile balance of diplomacy and military posturing in the Middle East.