Trump Declares Ceasefire Over as US Pressures Iran to End Strait of Hormuz Attacks

US-Iran Tensions Escalate

Military exchanges between the United States and Iran continued for a third straight night after Iran targeted commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. In response, President Donald Trump announced that the ceasefire was over and authorized additional US strikes against targets inside Iran.

Posting on Truth Social, President Trump said Iran had sought to continue negotiations but made clear that the United States considers the ceasefire finished following Tehran's actions.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran has asked us to continue talks. We have agreed to do so, but the United States has stated to them, in no uncertain terms, that the Cease Fire is OVER!"

Washington Issues New Ultimatum

According to Axios, the Trump administration has demanded that Iran publicly declare the Strait of Hormuz open to international shipping and commit to immediately ending attacks on commercial vessels by Saturday. US officials said the message was delivered through both direct diplomatic contacts and regional intermediaries.

American officials argue that Iran's attacks on shipping violated a bilateral understanding reached only weeks ago, raising serious doubts about Tehran's willingness to honor broader international commitments.

Diplomatic Efforts Continue

A high-level meeting between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi is scheduled for Saturday in Muscat as efforts continue to prevent further escalation.

US officials believe divisions remain inside the Iranian regime over whether to pursue an agreement with Washington. While some officials reportedly favor negotiations, others continue to support aggressive actions in the Strait of Hormuz.

American officials said they expect Iran to publicly announce that all shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz will remain open and free of interference. One US official warned that failure to do so would likely trigger additional consequences.

Strategic Importance

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global energy shipments. Continued Iranian attacks on commercial shipping have increased international concerns over regional stability and global energy security.