Iran’s military issued a stern warning on Tuesday, promising to “open new fronts” against the US if Washington resumes hostilities, following President Donald Trump’s claim that he paused a planned military strike to prioritize ongoing diplomatic negotiations.
The regional conflict, which erupted on 28 February, currently operates under a fragile ceasefire established on 8 April. Trump stated on Truth Social that Gulf leaders requested he “hold off on our planned Military attack of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in that serious negotiations are now taking place.”
However, the US president emphasized that he instructed the US military to remain “prepared to go forward with a full, large-scale assault of Iran, on a moment’s notice, in the event that an acceptable Deal is not reached.”
In response, Iranian army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia asserted that the military used the ceasefire to “strengthen its combat capabilities.” Qatar, which previously endured retaliatory strikes, continues to back Pakistani-led mediation efforts. Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari noted, “We are supportive of the diplomatic effort by Pakistan… and we do believe it needs more time.”
Control of the Strait
While diplomats seek a resolution, Tehran maintains its grip on the Strait of Hormuz. Iran recently established the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to manage traffic, while the Revolutionary Guards suggested that underwater fiber-optic cables may soon require Iranian permits.
Akraminia reiterated that the US has little choice but to “respect the Iranian nation and observe the legitimate rights of the Islamic republic.”
Negotiations remain deadlocked over core demands, with Iran labeling recent US proposals as “excessive” and lacking “tangible concessions.” Reports suggest Washington demands the transfer of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile.
Conversely, Tehran insists on the release of frozen assets, the removal of sanctions, and war reparations. Despite these obstacles, a source cited by the Tasnim news agency indicated a slight shift, noting that the US recently agreed to waive certain oil sanctions while talks continue.
