Trump Issues Ultimatum to Iran Over Strait of Hormuz
President Donald Trump issued a warning to Iran, demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours or face severe consequences, including the destruction of the country's power plants and bridges. This ultimatum follows a five-week conflict that has resulted in thousands of casualties and rising oil prices, with West Texas Intermediate crude climbing over 1.86% to more than $112 a barrel. Iran's military command dismissed Trump's threats as reckless, while negotiations mediated by Pakistan, Turkey, and Egypt are reportedly underway to resolve the ongoing tensions.
US and Iran Discuss 45-Day Ceasefire Amid Conflict
The U.S. and Iran, along with regional mediators, are engaged in discussions aimed at establishing a 45-day ceasefire to halt ongoing hostilities, with the potential for a permanent resolution to the conflict. Sources indicate that while the chances of reaching a partial deal within the next 48 hours are slim, this effort represents a critical opportunity to prevent further escalation, including significant strikes on Iranian civilian infrastructure. The negotiations involve intermediaries from Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey, and focus on confidence-building measures related to Iran's uranium stockpile and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Explosives Found Near Balkan Stream Gas Pipeline
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić announced the discovery of explosives near the Balkan Stream gas pipeline, which supplies Russian gas to Hungary, prompting Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to convene an emergency defense council meeting. The explosives, found in two backpacks in northern Serbia's Kanjiza, were located a few hundred meters from the pipeline. This incident occurs just days before Hungary's parliamentary elections, with Orbán's government alleging potential foreign interference, while opposition figures suggest it may be a false flag operation.
