Trump Demands Iran Reopen Strait of Hormuz for Peace Talks; Warns NATO Allies

President Donald Trump has issued a new ultimatum to Tehran, demanding the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to oil traffic as a precondition for any peace negotiations. Speaking at the FII Priority investment forum in Miami, the President asserted that Iran is currently "on the run" following U.S. military strikes that targeted its navy, air force, and nuclear infrastructure. While Trump insisted that negotiations are technically underway, officials in Tehran have continued to deny such claims. The standoff has significantly impacted global energy markets, with the closure of the strait—responsible for one-fifth of the world’s oil transit—causing a sharp surge in prices. Secretary of State Marco Rubio further cautioned that Iran might be seeking to establish a permanent "tolling system" for vessels in the region. Amid these economic pressures, President Trump expressed sharp frustration with European NATO allies for refusing to provide material assistance in the conflict, suggesting the U.S. may respond by scaling back its own commitments to the alliance. On the military front, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) released footage on Friday afternoon showing the continued destruction of Iranian targets. While reports from the region mentioned potential rocket barrages, specific details regarding timing or direct links to the current 24-hour window remain unconfirmed. The U.S. administration continues to emphasize economic leverage, with the President reiterating that the seizure of Iranian oil assets remains a viable policy option.