US Stock Futures Dive Further

Local time Thursday, April 24 — U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed as "silly" a question about whether he would use nuclear weapons against Iran, stating he would not and claiming he had already "defeated them without nuclear weapons." Speaking from the Oval Office, he added, "No one should ever be allowed to use nuclear weapons." Previously, Trump had threatened Iran, saying that unless an agreement was reached, "tonight the entire civilization will be destroyed and can never be recovered." However, just ahead of the deadline he set, an extension of the ceasefire was announced. (Xinhua)

April 24 — Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson released an official statement on April 23 in response to Speaker Kalibaf’s appointment as head of Tehran’s negotiation delegation. The spokesperson emphasized a fundamental shift in recent talks: the core issue is no longer the nuclear program but the full end of the war. Kalibaf has an Iran-Iraq War background and extensive experience across multiple fields. As Speaker, he can effectively coordinate domestic forces and is widely trusted by all political factions. Paired with Alaraghechi (who also has a war background), Iran views this as an efficient diplomatic team capable of overseeing the overall situation. The spokesperson clarified the nuclear issue is no longer the main focus; talks now center on a full ceasefire, with the top priority being safeguarding the country’s core interests. Shortly before the statement, Israeli sources claimed Kalibaf had resigned from Iran’s negotiation team due to the involvement of the Isl

April 24 — U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. currently "doesn't know who Iran's leadership is," arguing Iran is stalling the negotiation process and its dialogue partner remains unclear. He described Iran as "leaning toward the U.S., but with a lot of internal chaos." On the military front, Trump explicitly stated he would not use nuclear weapons, warning the consequences of a nuclear strike "would be worse than oil prices spiking to $200 a barrel." On energy, he noted ships from around the world are heading to the U.S. to buy oil, acknowledging American consumers may face higher gasoline prices in the short term. He also emphasized the U.S. is not seeking an additional time window.

On April 24, U.S. President Donald Trump said regarding Iran that an agreement could be reached now, but he wants the best possible, "enduring" deal. The Strait of Hormuz will remain open if an agreement is reached or under other circumstances. If Iran declines to reach an agreement, military means will be used to resolve the issue, targeting the remaining 25%. Trump noted U.S. warships have locked onto targets and are ready to act at any time, stressing that currently, "the time pressure is on Iran, not the United States."

Bitget market data shows Brent crude oil topped $101 a barrel on April 24, climbing 4.28% intraday. WTI crude is currently up 4.67%. Separately, Iran’s Tehran air defense system has been activated, with the cause not yet clear.

April 24 — Iran’s Nour News reports air defense systems have been activated in parts of Tehran for unknown reasons. Separately, Iran’s Mehr News Agency says sounds of air defense systems engaging enemy targets were heard in some areas of the capital. (per Jinse)