Kathmandu— U.S. President Donald Trump has called on Iran to surrender amid the expiration of a temporary agreement intended to reduce hostilities between the two nations. Speaking in an interview Monday, Trump demanded that Iran “put up the white flag of surrender” during what he described as a five-month conflict involving both the U.S. and Israel. The remarks came as mediators attempt to restart negotiations, with accusations from both sides regarding breaches of the now-expired memorandum of understanding (MoU).

Direct Communication and Conflict Control

Trump stated his administration had established a direct communication channel with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), characterizing them as “good poker players, but they’re dying.” Despite this backchannel, the president claimed he is not rushing to resolve the conflict, even as it impacts his political standing. He also asserted that he has no specific timeline for reaching a resolution, despite upcoming midterm elections in November where opposition Democrats are vying for control of Congress.

Threats to Regional Allies

Trump issued a direct threat to Oman, stating he would authorize military action against the U.S. ally if it interfered with efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blockaded. “If Oman gets in the way, we’ll bomb the s*** out of them,” he said during the interview. Iranian and Omani officials have been engaged in discussions regarding maritime navigation arrangements through the vital shipping route, working towards a joint declaration.

Truce Expires Amidst Accusations

The MoU between the U.S. and Iran expired without renewal, with both sides alleging violations since its implementation in mid-June. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated on Saturday that Tehran has not yet decided whether to resume negotiations with the United States. Trump previously claimed he could declare the Strait of Hormuz as U.S. territory, a statement met with a retort from Iran asserting the waterway “will remain Iranian.”

Proposed Maritime Mechanism

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei stated that ongoing discussions between Iran and Oman aim to develop a mechanism protecting both countries’ interests while ensuring safe commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. According to Baghaei, this represents the first attempt to simultaneously safeguard the sovereign rights of littoral states and maintain secure passage for vessels.

With the MoU expired and accusations continuing from both sides, the prospects for renewed negotiations remain uncertain as Iran and the U.S. continue to hold firm positions.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.