Trump Issues Stern Warning to Iran Over Strait of Hormuz Deadline
US President Donald Trump on Monday intensified his criticism of the Iranian regime, emphasizing a strict "48-hour deadline" for opening the Strait of Hormuz. During the 2026 White House Easter Egg Roll event with his wife Melania, Trump addressed reporters, highlighting unresolved issues related to weapons shipments intended for Iranian protesters earlier this year.
Allegations Over Withheld Guns to Protesters
Trump expressed frustration over guns that were sent to support protesters in Iran but allegedly never reached them. "We sent some guns. They were supposed to go to the people so they could fight back against these thugs. The people we sent them to kept them," he stated. This accusation follows similar remarks made during a Sunday interview with Fox News, where Trump specified that the weapons were directed at the Kurdish ethnic group in Iran. "We sent guns to the protesters, a lot of them. We sent to the Kurds," he said, adding, "And I think the Kurds kept them."
Final Deadline and Ceasefire Discussions
In his Monday statement, Trump declared that Tuesday's deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz is final. He also touched upon potential ceasefire negotiations, noting that Iran had presented a proposal. "It's a significant proposal. It's a significant step. It's not good enough," Trump commented. He suggested that the conflict could end swiftly if Iran meets certain undisclosed conditions, stating, "It could end very quickly, the war, if they do what they have to do. They have to do certain things. They know that, they've been negotiating I think in good faith."
Defense of Military Actions and Accusations
When questioned about the ethics of targeting bridges, which some critics label as war crimes, Trump defended such actions by citing Iranian aggression. "Because they killed 45,000 in the last month. They kill protesters. They are animals," he asserted, justifying the stance based on alleged human rights violations by the Iranian regime.
Overall, Trump's remarks underscore escalating tensions between the US and Iran, with clear warnings and accusations shaping the diplomatic landscape. The situation remains fluid as deadlines approach and negotiations continue.
