Trump Extends Deadline for Strikes on Iran’s Energy Plants to April 6 Amid Tense Diplomacy
President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to April 6, pausing threatened strikes on Iranian energy facilities as behind-the-scenes diplomacy continues. The move comes despite Tehran insisting it is not negotiating directly with Washington, leaving the world watching a tense standoff over one of the globe’s most strategic waterways.
Trump announced the extension on Thursday via Truth Social, stating that talks were progressing well, despite what he called misleading reports. In an interview with Fox News, he mentioned that Iran requested a seven-day pause on strikes, though mediators cited by the Wall Street Journal suggested Tehran made no formal request. The announcement marks the second extension, following a five-day halt declared on March 23. Meanwhile, Iran has remained silent and continues to reject US overtures.
The extension follows Iran’s formal rejection of a 15-point US proposal delivered through Pakistan. Iranian officials, including a representative of the supreme leader, reviewed the plan, which reportedly demanded the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear programme, restrictions on its missile capabilities, and control over the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran described the proposal as favoring only American and Israeli interests, highlighting the widening gap in diplomacy. Analysts suggest that Iran currently holds a strong negotiating position, despite the absence of official talks with Washington.
Civilian casualties continue to mount amid the ongoing conflict. Recent Iranian media reports indicate strikes on residential areas in Tehran, Qom, and Urmia, leaving at least six people dead and several injured. Israel has also targeted missile production and air defence sites across Iran, describing the operations as aimed at reducing Iran’s missile capabilities. The escalating violence has sparked concerns over further civilian harm and regional instability.
The conflict is also sending shockwaves through global markets. Crude oil prices have risen by roughly 40% since hostilities began, while liquefied natural gas and fertiliser costs have spiked, putting pressure on food production and energy supply worldwide. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has announced participation in a multinational effort to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while the US Pentagon considers deploying additional troops to the region. Trump proposed allowing ten oil tankers, including Pakistani-flagged vessels, safe passage through the strait, but Tehran has yet to respond.
source: Business day