Sources Say Trump Sets Conditions for Ceasefire: Must Meet U.S. 'Specific Demands'

On April 2, sources indicated that U.S. President Trump has instructed Vice President Pence to privately convey to Iran that he is open to a ceasefire as long as certain ‘specific demands,’ such as the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, are met. As of March 31, Pence was still discussing the Iran issue with ‘intermediaries.’ He conveyed a ‘tough’ message, stating that Trump is ‘impatient.’ He also warned that unless Iran reaches an agreement, its infrastructure will face increasing pressure from strikes. Additionally, on April 1, three U.S. officials stated that the U.S. is discussing the possibility of reaching a ceasefire agreement conditioned on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. These officials also noted that it is unclear whether an agreement can be reached. Earlier that day, Trump stated on social media that Iran had ‘just requested a ceasefire from the U.S.,’ but that the U.S. would only ‘consider’ it if the Strait of Hormuz is reopened. Later that day, he is expected to deliver a nationwide address regarding the Iran issue.