US President Donald Trump has pushed back his deadline for possible strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure for 10 more days, saying the pause came at Tehran’s request and stressing that negotiations are moving in a positive direction.In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he was delaying any action by 10 days until April 6 at 8 pm Eastern Time. “As per Iranian Government request, please let this statement serve to represent that I am pausing the period of Energy Plant destruction by 10 Days to Monday, April 6, 2026, at 8pm, Eastern Time,” Trump said.“Talks are ongoing and, despite erroneous statements to the contrary by the Fake News Media, and others, they are going very well,” he added.The move comes amid continued diplomatic efforts, with US envoy Steve Witkoff saying there were “strong signs” Tehran could be open to negotiations. The deadline, originally set as a 48-hour ultimatum demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face attacks on power facilities, has now been extended multiple times.Witkoff also revealed that Washington had sent a 15-point proposal to Iran through intermediaries in Pakistan, describing the moment as a potential turning point. Iran has reportedly responded via backchannels and is awaiting a US reply.According to Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, Tehran’s response includes demands that go beyond the US proposal — calling for an end to US and Israeli strikes, reparations, and recognition of its authority over the Strait of Hormuz.Speaking at the White House, Trump alternated between threats and optimism, saying Iran wanted a deal but only after facing heavy military pressure. He also suggested the US could take control of Iran’s oil resources, drawing comparisons to past actions in Venezuela.Meanwhile, Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid warned that the ongoing conflict is stretching Israel’s military capacity. He criticised the government for pushing the country into a multi-front war without sufficient planning or resources.Israeli military spokesperson Effie Defrin also highlighted the need for more troops, particularly along the Lebanese front, as operations expand.
