Trump’s comments came amid stalled negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, with Tehran reportedly demanding an immediate end to the war on all fronts, including Israeli attacks on Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, and an end to the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports. Iranian officials also asked for guarantees of no further attacks on Iran, compensation for war damage, and sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.

Escalating Tensions and Military Preparations

The U.S. had reportedly responded with five conditions, including a demand that Iran retain only one nuclear site and transfer its stockpile of highly enriched uranium to the U.S., according to Iran’s Fars news agency. Trump, in a post on Truth Social, emphasized urgency, writing, ‘TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!’ and urging Iran to ‘get moving, FAST.’

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with Trump on Sunday, and Israeli media reported that the two countries are advancing military preparations for potential coordinated attacks against Iran. Two regional intelligence officials told Fox News that Iran is employing a strategy of ‘delay and deception’ to prolong the crisis, hoping Trump would face political and operational difficulties in resuming military action.

Market Reactions to the Crisis

As tensions rise. The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil price climbed to a two-week high, reaching around $102.30, a 1.35% gain for the day, but Market analysts noted that geopolitical risks are boosting crude oil prices. In financial markets. ‘risk-off’ sentiment typically leads to stronger demand for safe-haven assets like bonds and gold, while ‘risk-on’ sentiment boosts stocks and commodities.

Iran’s Response and U.S. Stance

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson said the country had conveyed its concerns to the U.S. through Pakistani mediators and insisted its demands were ‘responsible’ and ‘generous.’ However, U.S. officials reportedly rejected Tehran’s proposals as ‘totally unacceptable,’ and Trump earlier described the truce as being on ‘massive life support.’

Regional intelligence sources suggest that Iran is using the timing of global events, including the World Cup and the 250th anniversary of the United States, to extend the conflict. Analysts believe this strategy could give Iran more time to delay any potential U.S. military response.