Trump gives Iran 'last chance' for a deal but says military option remains on the table
By Saqib S. Qureshi | SCN NEWS
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has warned Iran that it has a "last chance" to reach a diplomatic agreement with the United States, while making clear that his administration is under no time pressure to finalize a deal and is prepared to continue increasing pressure if negotiations fail.
Speaking as tensions remain high across the Middle East, Trump said the United States remains open to diplomacy but insisted Iran must decide whether it wants an agreement or continued confrontation.
"We're giving them a last chance," Trump said, adding that Washington is "under no time constraint" and would not rush into an agreement that fails to meet U.S. national security objectives.
The remarks come amid growing concerns over the possibility of renewed military confrontation after recent exchanges of threats between Washington and Tehran.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials confirmed they are holding discussions with Oman over the possibility of establishing an alternative maritime route linked to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important energy corridors.
The talks are viewed as part of Tehran's broader effort to reduce economic vulnerability and ensure continued trade should tensions in the Gulf escalate further.
The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly one-fifth of the world's seaborne oil supplies, making any disruption a major concern for global energy markets. Analysts say even the perception of instability in the waterway can trigger higher oil prices and increased shipping insurance costs.
Trump's latest warning follows weeks of heightened military activity across the region, including U.S. force deployments and repeated Iranian statements that any new American military strike would prompt retaliation against U.S. interests and allied facilities.
Despite the sharp rhetoric, diplomatic channels remain open through regional mediators, particularly Oman, which has long served as an intermediary between Washington and Tehran during previous rounds of negotiations.
Foreign policy experts say Trump's message reflects a dual-track strategy—maintaining maximum pressure while leaving the door open for diplomacy if Iran accepts Washington's conditions.
Whether Tehran chooses renewed negotiations or further escalation could determine the next phase of one of the world's most volatile geopolitical confrontations.