Donald Trump has issued a warning that unless Iran agrees to a peace deal, there will be a significant increase in the level and intensity of bombings. The U.S. President announced a pause in the operation to assist stranded vessels in the Strait of Hormuz to allow time for negotiations to end the conflict with Iran. However, the blockade of ports by American forces will continue.

The closure of the strait by Iran, a crucial passage for oil and gas supplies, has led to a surge in fuel prices and disrupted the global economy. Trump aims to weaken Iran’s leverage by breaking their control over the strait, which is vital for their disputed nuclear program negotiations.

While a fragile ceasefire is currently in place for talks, Trump has emphasized that failure to reach an agreement will result in escalated bombing. Trump expressed his thoughts on Truth Social, stating that if Iran complies, the blockade will be lifted, but failure to do so will lead to increased bombing operations.

The pause in guiding ships through the strait was initiated due to requests from Pakistan and other countries, recent military successes against Iran, and progress made towards a final agreement with Iran’s representatives. Negotiations seem to have hit a roadblock since the conflict began when the U.S. and Israel launched strikes against Iran on February 28.

In other developments, Iran’s Foreign Minister met with the Chinese counterpart in Beijing, marking the first such meeting since the conflict began. China’s significant economic and political ties with Iran give it influence in the situation. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed hope that China will urge Iran to ease its grip on the strait, a critical global energy passageway.