US and Iran Warn of War as Ceasefire Talks Hang in Balance

The United States and Iran have issued stark warnings of potential renewed conflict as a fragile ceasefire nears expiry and diplomatic talks remain uncertain.

Washington says Vice President JD Vance is prepared to return to Islamabad for a second round of negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. However, Tehran has not confirmed its participation and has accused the US of undermining the truce through port blockades and the seizure of Iranian-linked vessels.

Iranian officials strongly rejected what they called “pressure-based diplomacy.” Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said negotiations cannot continue under threats, adding that Iran is preparing “new options on the battlefield” if fighting resumes.

Tensions have escalated in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, where Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned that any vessel entering without permission could be targeted. The waterway handles around one-fifth of global oil shipments, making it critical for international energy markets.

US President Donald Trump accused Iran of violating the ceasefire and insisted that sanctions and blockades would remain until a broader agreement is reached, particularly on Tehran’s nuclear program. He also suggested the ceasefire is unlikely to be extended beyond its current deadline.

Despite diplomatic uncertainty, global markets reacted cautiously, with oil prices falling slightly amid hopes for a potential deal, while stock markets showed modest gains.

Meanwhile, reports from Tehran suggest mixed public sentiment, with residents describing worsening economic conditions and uncertainty over the future.

Separate ceasefire efforts involving Israel and Lebanon are also underway, with further talks expected later this week in Washington.

The situation remains volatile as both sides signal readiness for escalation while still leaving the door open for negotiations.