Negotiators from the US, Iran and a group of other regional mediators are reportedly discussing the terms of a potential 45-day ceasefire that could pave the way for an end to the war in the Middle East.
According to a report by Axios, which cited US and Israeli sources with knowledge of the talks, last-ditch efforts are underway to seal a truce in the next 48 hours, ahead of a deadline given by US President Donald Trump for Tehran to accept the deal and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
The effort, the paper said, may be the only chance to prevent a major escalation of the war, with Trump threatening to blow up “everything” and vowing to unleash “hell” on Iran if his demands are not met.
However, citing its sources, Axios said the chances of a deal being struck before Trump’s term is up are “slim.”
The two sources also said the operational plan for a massive US-Israeli bombing campaign against Iran’s energy facilities was ready, but stressed that Trump’s extension was aimed at giving Tehran a last chance to reach a deal before launching large-scale military operations.
On Easter Sunday, Trump — both verbally and through his Truth Social platform — issued dire threats to Iran.
“Tuesday will be Power Plant Day and Bridge Day all rolled into one in Iran. There will be no such thing!!! Open the F***** strait you crazy pigs or live in hell – JUST BEWARE!,” Trump said in an ominous warning on Truth Social on Sunday, followed by: “Tuesday, 8pm ET!” — probably the expiration of his term for Iran.
On Sunday, Trump also indicated there was a possibility of a deal but threatened widespread destruction if there was no ceasefire.
“There’s a good chance, but if they don’t come to an agreement, I’m going to blow everything up there,” the US president said unequivocally in an interview with Axios.
Trump’s 10-day Iran deadline – issued earlier – was set to expire on Monday, before the US president extended it until 8pm ET on Tuesday.
(This is a developing story. Check back for updates)
