President Donald Trump issued a stark ultimatum to Iran on Wednesday: accept a US-proposed agreement to end the conflict or face a severe escalation in bombing.
“Assuming Iran agrees to give what has been agreed to... the already legendary Epic Fury will be at an end,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “If they don’t agree, the bombing starts, and it will be at a much higher level and intensity.”
The president expressed optimism about reaching a deal ahead of his scheduled trip to China next week, telling PBS that a ceasefire is possible. Under the proposed framework, Iran would export its enriched uranium to the United States-a condition Tehran has previously rejected.
Reports indicate Washington and Tehran are close to a one-page memorandum of understanding to end hostilities and set the stage for nuclear negotiations. However, Trump downplayed the prospect of direct talks with Iran in Pakistan, the mediator.
The war, launched February 28, is deeply unpopular domestically, contributing to rising gas prices. On Tuesday, Trump paused a naval escort mission through the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress toward a final agreement, while maintaining the blockade of Iranian ports.