By Ginika Igboke 

President Donald Trump on April 6 warned that the United States could launch a devastating military strike against Iran “in one night” if Tehran fails to meet a deadline to reach a deal that includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking during a White House press conference, Trump said the situation had reached a निर्णing moment.

“The entire country can be taken out in one night, and that night might be tomorrow night,” he said.

Deadline Set for April 7

Trump stated that April 7 would serve as the final deadline for Iran to agree to terms, including restoring access to the Strait of Hormuz—a vital global shipping route shared by Iran and Oman through which a significant portion of the world’s oil and gas passes.

“This is a critical period. They have a period of, well, till tomorrow at 8 o’clock,” Trump said. “We’ll see what happens. I can tell you they’re negotiating, we think, in good faith. We’re going to find out.”

He emphasized that any agreement must guarantee “free traffic of oil” through the waterway and noted that some countries had offered to mediate, though he did not identify them.

Threats of Escalation

Trump warned that failure to reach a deal could result in severe consequences, including potential strikes on Iranian infrastructure such as bridges and power plants. He added that U.S. forces could push Iran back to the “Stone Age” if negotiations collapse.

The president has repeatedly adjusted deadlines in recent weeks. After initially issuing a 48-hour ultimatum, he extended the timeline multiple times—first to five days, then by another 10 days—bringing the final deadline to April 7.

Earlier on April 6, Trump said Iran had presented a proposal but dismissed it as insufficient. When asked whether another extension was possible, he indicated it was “highly unlikely.”

“They’ve had plenty of time,” he said. “At the end of 10, all hell’s going to break out if you don’t get there.”

Iran Rejects Cease-Fire Proposal

Iran has pushed back against U.S. demands. On April 6, Tehran rejected a cease-fire proposal, insisting instead on a permanent end to hostilities along with guarantees against future attacks, according to state media.

Mojtaba Ferdousi Pour, Iran’s diplomatic representative in Cairo, said the country would not accept a temporary truce.

“We won’t merely accept a ceasefire. We only accept an end to the war with guarantees that we won’t be attacked again,” he said.

Iran reportedly conveyed its response through Pakistan, signaling its position in ongoing indirect negotiations.

Competing Proposals and Ongoing Tensions

According to Iranian state media, Tehran’s proposal includes multiple conditions, such as ending regional conflicts, ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, lifting economic sanctions, and launching reconstruction efforts.

With both sides holding firm positions and the deadline looming, tensions remain high as the possibility of further escalation continues to grow.