Trump's latest deadline to halt the conflict in West Asia and reopen the Strait of Hormuz came as he issued another threat to Iran. (AI Generated Image)Soon after US President Donald Trump warned Iran that the American military would strike its power plants and energy infrastructure if a US-backed proposal was not accepted by Tehran by Wednesday, 5:30 am IST, the Islamic Republic urged young people to form human chains around power plants and other potential targets.The US president’s latest deadline to halt the conflict in West Asia and reopen the Strait of Hormuz came as he issued another threat to Iran, stating that a “whole civilization will die tonight” if Tehran failed to meet the deadline and strike a deal.After pushing the deadline four times in the past month, Trump said Wednesday’s deadline was final, adding that there would be no further extensions and that the US military would “obliterate” the Islamic Republic if a major diplomatic breakthrough did not take place. According to reports, Trump may proceed with a full-scale escalation against Iran if the country does not agree to a US-backed ceasefire. (AI generated image)Full-scale escalationAccording to reports, Trump may proceed with a full-scale escalation against Iran if the country does not agree to a US-backed ceasefire and reopen the strait. This option is supported by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who reportedly told Trump two days ago that the Iranian regime was on the brink and that one final blow could bring it down.However, the aims of the US and Israel differ in their joint approach to Iran. Quoting Sima Shine, a senior researcher, The Telegraph UK reported that Netanyahu faces an election in October, and if the Iranian regime remains standing, it could work against his political interests.If the US chooses to mount a heavy attack on Iran, it would be because Trump calculates it to be in American interests, Shine said.11th-hour deal with IranStory continues below this adIf reports are to be believed, both the US and Iran have been looking for ways to halt the hostilities, which have caused substantial military, structural and social damage in Tehran.As Trump faces soaring crude prices and souring relations with allies in Asia, the Gulf and Europe, there are reportedly growing concerns about Washington getting stuck in an Iraq-style situation.US Vice President JD Vance and Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, are reportedly among those pushing Trump for an off-ramp in the war against Iran.The Express Global Desk at The Indian Express delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdTags:donald trumpUS Iran tensions