US not ready to seek deal to end war with Iran, Donald Trump says
Former President Donald Trump declared the United States would not seek a ceasefire with Iran until terms were favorable, even as both sides launch new strikes. The conflict has disrupted global oil flows, heightened regional tensions, and caused significant casualties.
On Saturday, Donald Trump announced that the United States would not pursue a ceasefire with Iran until the terms were more favorable, despite Tehran’s apparent willingness to negotiate. Trump’s remarks came as Iran fired missiles and drones at Gulf states and Israel, while U.S. and Israeli aircraft intensified strikes on Iranian targets.
Escalating Military Actions
Trump told NBC News that U.S. forces could strike Iran’s Kharg Island oil export facility “just for fun,” after a recent U.S. air raid on the site. He also said American troops would target the Iranian coast north of the Strait of Hormuz to secure shipping lanes. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi denied that Tehran had requested a ceasefire, stating that Iran would defend itself as long as necessary.
Israel’s military launched a new wave of attacks on western Iranian targets, citing threats from the Revolutionary Guard. Brigadier General Effie Defrin, an Israeli spokesperson, confirmed that Israel still had thousands of targets in Iran and was identifying new ones daily.
Impact on Global Oil and Shipping
The Strait of Hormuz, which handles roughly 20% of the world’s oil and gas, has been a focal point of the conflict. With more than 600 vessels trapped in the Red Sea, the U.S. has called on other navies to escort tankers. Experts warn that military action alone may not reopen the strait if Iran can continue to target shipping with missiles, drones, or small boats.
Oil prices have surged worldwide as the conflict threatens supply routes. The U.S. National Economic Council’s Kevin Hassert estimates that U.S. strikes have cost about $12 billion to date.
Humanitarian Toll and Civilian Life in Iran
According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, U.S. and Israeli strikes have killed more than 1,300 people in Iran, including 223 women and 202 children. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reports that up to 3.2 million Iranians have been displaced, many fleeing Tehran and other major cities.
Despite the violence, some reports describe a return to normalcy in Tehran’s streets. Traffic has increased, cafés have reopened, and the Tajrish bazaar in northern Tehran was partially open just days before Nowruz, the Persian New Year. However, online banking services at Bank Melli have been disrupted, and many people are still waiting at bus stops that had been largely deserted during the early stages of the war.
Regional Reactions and Diplomatic Efforts
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed. Trump, however, questioned whether Khamenei was even alive, citing the lack of public appearances. Iran’s foreign minister urged other countries to avoid actions that could “lead to escalation and expansion of the conflict.”
Turkey has reportedly been working to mediate a rapid end to the hostilities, while Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have intercepted renewed Iranian projectile barrages. The UAE denies allowing U.S. forces to use its bases for strikes on Kharg Island.
In Israel, 12 people were killed by Iranian missile fire, and two were lightly injured in a recent attack. Israeli officials say their strikes aim to degrade Hezbollah’s capabilities, an Iran‑backed militant group that has also joined the conflict by launching missiles and drones into Israel.
Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Sa’ar, reaffirmed that Israel and the U.S. share a common goal of removing existential threats from Iran and that they will continue until those goals are achieved.
What Happens Next?
The situation remains fluid. While Iran claims readiness to consider proposals that end the war, no concrete diplomatic breakthrough has occurred. U.S. and Israeli forces continue to target Iranian military installations, and the Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint. The international community watches closely as the conflict threatens to disrupt global energy markets and regional stability.
Why it matters
The U.S.-Iran conflict has far‑reaching implications for global oil supply, regional security, and civilian safety. Understanding the latest developments helps readers gauge the potential impact on international markets and geopolitical dynamics.
Key points
- Trump vows U.S. will not accept a ceasefire until terms improve
- Iran and Israel intensify missile and drone attacks
- Strait of Hormuz remains closed, affecting global oil flow
- Over 1,300 civilians killed in Iran, 3.2 million displaced
- Regional powers intervene but no diplomatic resolution yet
Frequently asked questions
Why is the U.S. not seeking a ceasefire with Iran?
Trump says the U.S. will only agree to a ceasefire if the terms are more favorable and do not meet current demands.
What is the impact on oil prices?
The conflict has disrupted shipping lanes, causing global oil prices to rise as supply routes become uncertain.
How many civilians have died in Iran?
More than 1,300 civilians, including women and children, have been killed by U.S. and Israeli strikes.
