Trump warns Iran of ‘very bad time’ as Middle East edges closer to wider war

Washington DC: Tensions across West Asia intensified on Saturday after US President Donald Trump issued a sharp warning to Iran, stating that it would face a “very bad time” if it fails to agree to a peace deal soon.

Speaking in a telephone interview with French broadcaster BFMTV, Trump said Iran had “an interest in reaching an agreement,” signalling continued pressure from Washington amid ongoing diplomatic uncertainty.

At the same time, Israel launched a series of airstrikes on southern Lebanon, despite an extended truce between Israel and Hezbollah. The renewed strikes have added to fears of further escalation in the region, even as both sides continue intermittent exchanges of attacks.

The situation remains fragile, with ceasefire arrangements struggling to hold amid repeated violations and rising military activity along the border.

Iran signals control over Hormuz shipping

Iran has also indicated plans to regulate maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.

According to Iranian officials, a “professional mechanism” is being prepared to manage shipping lanes under a designated system. Tehran stated that only commercial vessels cooperating with Iran would be allowed access under the proposed framework, while others could face restrictions.

The move has raised concerns globally, as any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could significantly impact global energy supply chains and oil prices.

India raises concern at UN

India has expressed concern over the situation, with its Permanent Representative to the United Nations highlighting the importance of protecting freedom of navigation and commercial shipping.

India emphasised that disruptions in maritime trade routes, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, are unacceptable under international law and warned of broader risks to energy and fertiliser supply chains.

Iran-US tensions continue to rise

Iranian officials have also stated that transit through the Strait of Hormuz would normalise only once the ongoing conflict with the US and Israel ends. However, diplomatic differences remain unresolved, with no clear roadmap for de-escalation.

As tensions continue across multiple fronts, including Lebanon and maritime routes, global observers warn that the region remains highly unstable, with risks of further escalation if diplomatic efforts fail.