Asian Mail News Desk
Tensions in the Middle East continue to rise, as US President Donald Trump steps up pressure on Iran, warning of a tougher naval blockade and a looming deadline for a deal. Meanwhile, a temporary extension has been agreed to the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Separately, Iran has imposed new restrictions and transit fees on the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over global energy markets and regional stability.
‘Time is running out’: Trump issues warning to Iran
In Washington, President Trump reiterated his warning to Iran on Friday, saying time is “rapidly running out” and that the naval blockade would become increasingly severe unless an agreement is reached that serves the interests of the United States and its allies.
Writing on his social media platform, he said: “Time is not on their side. The blockade is total and impenetrable, and conditions will only worsen from here. Any agreement will only be made if it is fair and beneficial to the United States, its allies and the wider world.”
He also criticised US media outlets, including The New York Times and CNN, saying they had suggested he was eager to end the conflict with Iran. “Please understand, I may be the least pressured person to ever hold this office,” he said, adding: “I have all the time in the world — Iran does not. The clock is ticking.”
Mr Trump further claimed that Iran’s naval and air capabilities had been severely degraded, including the destruction of air defence and radar systems, and suggested that key leadership figures were no longer in place.
Israel–Lebanon ceasefire extended
President Trump also announced a three-week extension to the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon following a meeting at the White House. The talks were attended by senior US officials, including Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with diplomatic representatives.
Describing the meeting as “very successful”, Mr Trump said the United States would continue to work with Lebanon to help ensure its security, including protection from the Iran-backed group Hezbollah.
He added that he expected to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in the near future, though no date has been confirmed.
Iran grants exemptions on Hormuz transit fees
Iran’s ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, said Tehran had granted exemptions to several countries, including Russia, from newly introduced transit fees for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
The move follows an earlier announcement by Iranian lawmaker Hamid Reza Hajji Babaei that Iran had, for the first time, begun charging ships for passage through the strait, with revenues being transferred to the central bank.
Responding to questions, the ambassador said some countries had been temporarily exempted, but added that the future of the policy remained uncertain.
Iran said the charges were introduced following US and Israeli strikes, citing the cost of maintaining security in the waterway. It has also declared the strait effectively closed until the United States lifts its naval blockade.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial route for the shipment of oil and liquefied natural gas from Gulf states to global markets. Its disruption has already affected regional energy production and exports, raising fears of wider economic consequences.
