Will start dropping bombs again, Trump warns if Iran deal not sealed by Wednesday

The remarks come against the backdrop of stalled diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran, including a recent round of indirect talks in Pakistan that failed to produce a breakthrough.

In Short

• US to maintain blockade on Iranian ports despite truce uncertainty
• Failed Pakistan talks deepen deadlock between Washington and Tehran
• Conflicting claims persist over security and access in Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump on Friday warned that the ceasefire with Iran could be terminated if a broader agreement to end hostilities is not reached by Wednesday, signalling a possible return to military escalation amid continuing tensions in the Gulf.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One while returning to Washington from Phoenix, Arizona, Trump indicated uncertainty over extending the truce.

"Maybe I won't extend it, but the blockade (on Iranian ports) is going to remain," he said. "So you have a blockade, and unfortunately we have to start dropping bombs again".

The remarks come against the backdrop of stalled diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran, including a recent round of indirect talks in Pakistan that failed to produce a breakthrough.

While backchannel engagements had raised hopes of de-escalation, both sides remain divided on key issues, including sanctions relief, nuclear commitments and maritime security.

The situation has been further complicated by ongoing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy corridor that handles nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

Although Washington has maintained that the waterway is "open" and safe for navigation, Tehran has issued repeated warnings that access could be restricted if US pressure continues.

The US has enforced a naval blockade targeting Iranian ports since mid-April, aiming to restrict maritime movement linked to Tehran.

American officials have said vessels attempting to enter or leave Iranian ports have been turned back under the enforcement regime. Iran, however, has condemned the move as illegal and provocative.

Iranian leaders have also pushed back against US claims regarding the status of the Strait and broader negotiations.

Officials in Tehran have suggested that any continued blockade could directly impact shipping access through Hormuz, raising concerns among global markets already sensitive to supply disruptions.

Trump’s latest comments underscore a widening gap between the two sides, even as both publicly signal openness to a deal.

The US president has repeatedly expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, while simultaneously warning of military consequences if talks collapse.

The uncertainty has contributed to cautious sentiment in global energy markets, with analysts noting that a prolonged standoff could tighten supply conditions and delay any return to normal shipping patterns in the region.

With the Wednesday deadline approaching, attention is now focused on whether diplomatic channels can yield progress or whether the fragile ceasefire will give way to renewed conflict, potentially intensifying instability across the Gulf and beyond.

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