US President Donald Trump has warned Iran that it must choose between reaching an agreement with Washington or facing what he described as “total surrender,” as tensions between the two countries continue to escalate.
Trump made the statement on Monday in a post on Truth Social after Tehran rejected claims that it was directly negotiating with the United States.
The US president accused Iran of being misleading over the status of discussions and insisted that talks were taking place despite Tehran’s public statements denying direct negotiations.
“Whether Iran wants to admit it or not, we are, in fact, talking of a solution to a problem that they have caused, for decades,” Trump wrote.
He added that a US military blockade would remain in place until Iran agrees to a deal or accepts complete surrender.
Iran Denies Direct Talks With Washington
Trump’s comments followed statements from Iranian officials who said there were no direct negotiations currently taking place between Tehran and Washington.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry said the only discussions underway involved Oman and focused on arrangements related to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.
The disagreement highlights the deep divide between the two governments over whether diplomatic communication is taking place and what conditions would be required for a potential agreement.
Trump claimed Iran had previously requested talks, saying some people would describe Tehran’s actions as an attempt to seek negotiations, but accused Iranian officials of now changing their position.
Trump Says US Controls Strait of Hormuz
The US president also addressed the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, where tensions have increased due to military activity and disruptions to shipping.
Trump claimed that the waterway is effectively controlled by the US Navy and said restrictions would continue until Iran reaches an agreement with Washington.
He described the American presence in the region as a strong barrier preventing Iran from freely accessing international trade routes.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil shipments pass, making any disruption there a major concern for international markets.
Conflict With Iran Enters New Phase
The latest confrontation follows the military campaign launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28.
The initial objectives of the operation reportedly included targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, missile capabilities, and support for armed groups across the region.
However, more than five months into the conflict, Iran has continued to maintain military capabilities, including missile and drone operations against US and allied targets.
Iran also continues to hold enriched uranium stockpiles, keeping concerns over its nuclear programme at the centre of international discussions.
Iran Uses Strait of Hormuz as Strategic Pressure Point
Despite heavy US pressure, Iran has gained leverage through its actions affecting shipping activity around the Strait of Hormuz.
Attacks and disruptions involving vessels in the area have significantly affected global energy markets and increased concerns about fuel supplies and international trade.
The situation has created a complex standoff, with Washington using military and economic pressure while Tehran continues to use its strategic position near one of the world’s most important maritime routes.
Diplomatic Path Remains Uncertain
While Trump has repeatedly said he prefers reaching a deal, his latest comments signal a harder approach toward Tehran.
Iran, meanwhile, has maintained that it will not accept negotiations conducted under military threats or pressure.
The future of US-Iran relations remains uncertain as both sides continue exchanging warnings while global powers monitor the possibility of either renewed diplomacy or further escalation.
