US officials have warned that a renewed war with Iran is increasingly likely if ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran fail to produce a breakthrough in the coming hours, according to a report aired by Israeli Channel 12 on Saturday evening.
Citing a well-informed source, the report stated that “the war with Iran could resume within the next few days” if diplomatic progress stalls. The warning reflects heightened concern within US decision-making circles amid escalating regional tensions and fragile negotiations.
Strategic Tensions Around the Strait of Hormuz
The report also revealed that the White House convened a high-level security meeting following developments linked to the Strait of Hormuz, including its re-closure. During the meeting, officials raised concerns over the potential shutdown of the critical maritime route, which would significantly disrupt global shipping and energy flows.
Despite the rising tensions on the ground, the same source confirmed that tangible progress has been achieved in negotiations surrounding Iran’s uranium enrichment programme and its stockpile of enriched uranium. This indicates that diplomatic channels remain active, albeit under significant pressure.
Iran Escalates with Hormuz Closure
Earlier on Saturday, the Iranian military announced the renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz, describing the move as a response to the continued US naval blockade imposed on the country. The announcement came in a statement issued by the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the military body responsible for overseeing combat operations within Iran’s armed forces.
Following this development, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations authority reported three separate maritime incidents within a three-hour window involving vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz near the coast of Oman. These incidents underscore the volatility of the situation and the increasing risks to international shipping.
Conflicting Signals Amid Temporary Truce
On Friday, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain fully open to all commercial vessels during the remaining days of a two-week truce. This temporary ceasefire was announced on 8 April by US President Donald Trump and Iranian officials, aimed at reducing immediate tensions.
However, the latest developments suggest conflicting signals between diplomatic assurances and military actions, raising serious doubts about the sustainability of the truce and the trajectory of US-Iran relations in the near term.
