Washington/Tehran: Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, saying Tehran has just 48 hours to reach a deal or face severe consequences, as tensions escalate across an already volatile Middle East.
The warning came as US and Iranian forces continued efforts to locate a missing American airman following fresh aerial confrontations. The situation has added urgency to a conflict that has steadily widened over the past month.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump reiterated his earlier ultimatum, referencing a deadline he had set in late March. “Time is running out,” he said, warning that failure to comply could trigger overwhelming retaliation.
Conflict Spreads Across Region
The crisis began with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, prompting swift retaliation from Tehran. Since then, the conflict has spilled beyond borders, disrupting regional stability and rattling global markets.
A recent strike near an Iranian nuclear facility led to evacuations in nearby areas, raising fears of further escalation. Iran has also claimed responsibility for new attacks, including a strike on a commercial vessel in Bahrain that it alleges is linked to Israel. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has intensified economic concerns, with energy markets already feeling the strain.
Amid the rising tensions, efforts to locate a missing US pilot have intensified. Tehran claims to have shot down multiple American aircraft, including a fighter jet and a ground-attack plane, though details remain contested.
Reports indicate that one crew member from a downed aircraft has been rescued, while search operations continue for another pilot believed to be on the ground in southwestern Iran. Local authorities say civilians have joined security forces in the search effort.
Videos circulating online appear to show Iranian forces engaging a US helicopter involved in the rescue mission, highlighting the risks facing personnel on both sides.
As the deadline set by Washington approaches, the region remains on edge, with fears that any miscalculation could push the conflict into a far more dangerous phase.
