Donald Trump has claimed that Iran allowed additional oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as a 'present' to Washington, even as the conflict in the Middle East deepens and high-stakes negotiations continue behind the scenes.
In an interview with the Financial Times, Trump said Tehran had initially permitted 10 Pakistan-flagged oil tankers to cross the crucial shipping lane, before increasing the number to 20 - a claim that has not been verified yet.
Talks continue amid threats of escalation, with the US and its allies engaged in an expanding conflict with Iran that has already disrupted regional stability and global energy markets.
Trump maintained a hardline stance, warning that Tehran faces a looming deadline to strike a deal by April 6 or risk further US strikes targeting its energy infrastructure.
He also indicated that diplomatic channels remain active, with indirect negotiations reportedly facilitated by Pakistani intermediaries.
Trump reiterated that his 'preference' would be to 'take the oil' in Iran, including potentially seizing key infrastructure such as Kharg Island, the country's main export hub.
