Negotiators from US, Iran, and a group of other regional mediators are reportedly discussing terms for a potential 45-day ceasefire that could pave the way for the end of 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, prior to the expiry of US President Donald Trump’s deadline to Tehran to accept a deal and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
This effort, the outlet reported, is perhaps the only chance to prevent a major escalation in the war, with Trump threatening to blow up “everything” and vowing to unleash “Hell” on Iran if his demands are not met.
However, Axios, citing its sources, said that the chances of a deal being reached before the expiry of Trump’s deadline was “slim”.
Two sources also told the outlet the operational plan for a massive US-Israeli bombing campaign against Iran’s energy facilities was ready, but stressed the extension of Trump’s deadline was aimed at giving Tehran a last chance to reach a deal prior to the commencement of large-scale military operations.
On Easter Sunday, Trump — both verbally, and through his Truth Social platform — issued dire threats against Iran.
“Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!! Open the F***** Strait, you crazy b******s, or you’ll be living in Hell – JUST WATCH!,” Trump said on Sunday in an ominous warning on Truth Social, and followed up with, “”Tuesday, 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time! — presumably the expiry of his deadline to Iran.
On Sunday, Trump also hinted that there was a possibility of a deal being reached, but threatened widespread destruction in the absence of a truce.
“There is a good chance, but if they don’t make a deal, I am blowing up everything over there,” the US President said unequivocally in an interview with Axios.
(This is a developing story. Check back for updates)
