Washington: Amid rising global uncertainty, Donald Trump has decided to push back the deadline for reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, offering more time for diplomatic efforts with Iran.
The extension, now set until April 6, signals a temporary step back from earlier warnings of possible US strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure. Trump said negotiations aimed at ending the conflict are progressing positively, though no formal agreement has yet been reached.
The move comes shortly after Tehran rejected a ceasefire proposal put forward by Washington. Despite the rejection, Trump maintained that Iran is under pressure to negotiate and called on its leadership to engage seriously in talks.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high, with Iran warning it could target key regional facilities if attacked. The standoff has raised concerns about further escalation across the Middle East.
Global financial markets reacted sharply to the uncertainty. Major indices on Wall Street recorded significant losses, reflecting investor anxiety over the prolonged conflict. At the same time, oil prices surged due to fears of supply disruptions linked to the continued instability in the Gulf region.
Analysts say the delay in military action may provide a narrow window for diplomacy, but the situation remains fragile. With both sides maintaining strong positions, the coming days are likely to be critical in determining whether tensions ease or intensify further.
