Trump Extends Deadline as Global Energy Crisis Worsens in US-Israel-Iran Conflict

Deadline Extended

US President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz for a second time, giving Tehran an additional 10 days to act or face potential attacks on its power plants. This extension comes as peace talks between the two nations remain in limbo, with both sides sending conflicting signals. Iran continues to express deep skepticism about US intentions, while Trump has shown growing frustration with the slow pace of negotiations.

The conflict, which has lasted nearly four weeks, has resulted in thousands of casualties across the Middle East and shows no signs of slowing down. Overnight strikes in Iran have killed dozens, according to local authorities and state media. In southern Lebanon and Beirut, early Friday attacks were reported by Lebanon’s National News Agency.

Fractured Negotiations

Trump has made it clear that the responsibility lies with Iranian leaders to convince him to stop the war, stating he is not interested in making a deal. He expressed frustration with Iran’s approach during Thursday’s press conference, warning that time is running out for meaningful negotiations. On the other hand, Iranian officials have described their doubts about Washington’s commitment to ceasefire discussions.

Cascading Effects of the War

The ongoing conflict is having a ripple effect globally, particularly in Asia. Countries are implementing austerity measures to cope with the energy crisis. South Korea has declared an emergency economic response, while Japan has started releasing oil from its state-owned reserves. The Philippines has declared a state of emergency, as it only has about 40 to 45 days of petroleum supply left.

Protests in the Philippines

In the Philippines, hundreds of people marched through Manila on Friday, protesting rising fuel prices. This protest is part of a two-day nationwide strike organized by the country’s transport union. A public transport operator shared with Jendela Magazine that the increase in oil prices has made it impossible for him to afford his children’s “school allowance.”

Markets in Turmoil

Global markets have been significantly impacted by the war, affecting not just stocks but also safe havens like bonds, gold, and currencies. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq are all set for their worst month in a year. Oil prices saw a slight rise on Friday, highlighting the volatility of the market this week, which mirrors Trump’s inconsistent messaging.

Civilian Casualties

At least 18 people were killed and 10 injured in overnight strikes in Qom, according to the city’s deputy governor. Additional casualties were reported in Urmia, western Iran, as per state media. In Tehran, rescue workers searched through rubble on Friday morning, hoping to find survivors after the overnight attacks.

Ongoing Fighting

Attacks continue to plague the region, with Israel conducting a wave of strikes “in the heart of Tehran” on Friday, as reported by its military. Kuwait also faced “hostile missile and drone attacks,” with authorities warning civilians that explosions they heard were due to air defense interceptions.

Iran Navy Chief Killed

Alireza Tangsiri, the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps navy, has reportedly been killed, according to Israel’s defense minister. Tangsiri was responsible for the near-total shutdown of shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, as claimed by the US and Israel. Iranian authorities have yet to comment on these reports.

IDF Warning

With multiple fronts open, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are under severe strain, according to the Israeli military’s chief of staff. This warning was shared with government ministers by a source.

Nuclear Plant Concerns

The head of the UN nuclear watchdog has expressed “deep concern” over recent military strikes near Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant. The official warned that any damage to the operating facility could lead to a “major radiological accident.”

For more updates and news from Jendela Magazine, create an account at Jendela Magazine.