US-Iran Ceasefire Nears Expiry, Trump Says Extension Unlikely

Washington (IANS): The fragile two-week US-Iran ceasefire faces a critical deadline this Wednesday evening, with prospects for a diplomatic breakthrough dimming as tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump has labeled an extension of the truce “highly unlikely,” signaling a potential return to active hostilities.

When asked if he expects strikes to resume immediately should negotiations fail, President Trump replied, “If there’s no deal, I would certainly expect.“

Diplomatic Channels Remain Strained

Despite the aggressive rhetoric, Washington is reportedly attempting to keep diplomatic channels functional. Vice President JD Vance, who led the initial round of face-to-face negotiations, plans to depart for Islamabad by Tuesday for further discussions.

President Trump indicated a conditional willingness to engage, telling The Washington Post that he would meet senior Iranian leaders if negotiators reach a breakthrough. However, in a separate interview with Bloomberg, he noted that his personal attendance at the talks might not be necessary.

Mixed Signals from Tehran

The response from Tehran remains inconsistent. While reports suggest the Iranian team received a “green light” from the Supreme Leader to engage in talks, official confirmation remains elusive.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated on Monday that Iran currently has no plans for a second round of negotiations, arguing that US actions do not demonstrate a serious commitment to diplomacy. Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi further characterized US “provocative actions” and “ceasefire violations” as major obstacles to peace.

The Hormuz Standoff

The Strait of Hormuz remains the central flashpoint of the conflict. This narrow waterway, which facilitates roughly one-fifth of global oil trade, remains under heavy restriction. Although Iran briefly reopened the strait following the initial ceasefire, it reimposed limitations after the US Navy seized an Iranian-flagged cargo ship attempting to bypass a blockade over the weekend.

President Trump remains firm on the maritime closure. “They want me to open it. The Iranians desperately want it opened. I’m not opening it until a deal is signed,” he stated in a phone interview.

Domestic Normalization Amid Conflict

In a rare sign of domestic normalization, Iran’s Civil Aviation Authority announced the reopening of Tehran’s main airports—Imam Khomeini and Mehrabad—for passenger flights following weeks of wartime closures.

The original ceasefire, initially hailed as a significant de-escalation after seven weeks of intense conflict, has yet to yield a permanent resolution. Since the inconclusive first-round talks in Islamabad earlier this month, both nations have largely resorted to public criticism and maritime maneuvers.