Middle East crisis live: Iran warns of ‘devastating’ retaliation after Trump’s expletive-laden threats over strait of Hormuz

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated as Iran warns of a "devastating" retaliation following President Trump's expletive-laden threats over the Strait of Hormuz. The situation has intensified with large explosions reported at the South Pars gas field, the world's largest natural gas reserve, as both the US and Iran receive new proposals for a potential 45-day ceasefire. Trump's recent comments have been met with criticism from US politicians, who have described him as an "unhinged madman."

The South Pars gas field, located in Iranian waters, is a critical energy resource, and the explosions have raised concerns about the stability of the region. The US and Iran have been engaged in a high-stakes standoff over the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway that is vital for global oil and gas trade. Trump has threatened to close the strait if Iran does not reopen it by Tuesday, warning the country to face "hell" otherwise.

In response to the escalating tensions, a Japanese shipping firm, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, reported that an Indian-flagged tanker, the Green Asha, had safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz and was en route to India. The spokeswoman for the firm told AFP that the tanker, which carries liquefied petroleum gas, had crossed the waterway without incident. This news comes as a relief to shipping companies and global markets that rely on the strait for the transport of crude oil and other energy resources.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has expressed solidarity with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and called for restraint and de-escalation in the region. The UAE, a key ally of the US in the Middle East, has been a focal point of the ongoing crisis, with both the US and Iran vying for influence in the area. Pakistan's statement highlights the broader regional concerns and the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation.

The new proposals for a 45-day ceasefire are being considered by both the US and Iran, but it remains unclear whether either side will agree to the terms. The ceasefire could provide much-needed time for diplomatic negotiations and de-escalation, but the recent threats and actions suggest that tensions may not be easing anytime soon.

As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is closely monitoring the developments in the Middle East. The explosions at the South Pars gas field, combined with the high-stakes rhetoric from both the US and Iran, have raised fears of a potential military conflict that could have far-reaching consequences for global energy markets and regional stability.

The US politicians' reaction to Trump's threats underscores the internal divisions within the US government. Critics argue that Trump's aggressive stance towards Iran could lead to a dangerous escalation, while supporters maintain that his tough approach is necessary to counter Iran's alleged aggression.

In the meantime, the safe passage of the Indian-flagged tanker through the Strait of Hormuz offers a glimmer of hope that the situation can be managed without further incidents. However, the overall outlook remains uncertain, with both the US and Iran seemingly entrenched in their respective positions.

The ceasefire proposals, if accepted, could provide a brief respite from the current tensions. However, the long-term stability of the region will depend on whether both sides can find a diplomatic solution to their differences. The international community is urging restraint and dialogue, but the path to de-escalation remains unclear.

As the situation continues to evolve, the focus will be on whether the US and Iran can find common ground and avoid a potential military confrontation that could have severe consequences for the entire Middle East and beyond.