US-Iran peace talks in doubt as ceasefire nears end, tensions rise over Hormuz incident
PTC Web Desk: Uncertainty looms over the second round of peace talks between the United States and Iran, which were expected to be held in Pakistan this week, after fresh tensions escalated between the two sides.
The situation worsened after the US seized an Iranian-flagged vessel near the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend, prompting strong reactions from Tehran. Iranian officials have now hinted that they may skip the upcoming talks.
At the same time, the fragile two-week ceasefire between the two countries is set to end on Wednesday. US President Donald Trump has indicated that the truce is unlikely to be extended.
Iran has accused Washington of violating the ceasefire and attempting to pressure Tehran into submission. The country’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who is also leading negotiations with the US, said Iran would not agree to talks under threats.
In a post on X, Ghalibaf warned that Iran has prepared “new options” if conflict resumes, signaling a possible escalation if diplomacy fails.
The Strait of Hormuz has become a major flashpoint in the ongoing tensions. Despite both nations expressing interest in dialogue, their actions in the region suggest rising confrontation.
On the US side, the administration has confirmed its participation in the Pakistan talks. The delegation is expected to be led by Vice President JD Vance, along with Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner.
However, the schedule remains uncertain. While Trump earlier mentioned Tuesday for the meeting in Islamabad, he later suggested the timing could change.
Trump also issued a warning about what could happen if the ceasefire ends without progress. In an interview with PBS News, he said that if talks fail, “then lots of bombs start going off.”
Sources familiar with the matter say the tone of US statements and continued military pressure are key concerns for Iran. An Iranian official told The Washington Post that although both sides had made progress on a possible agreement, strong public remarks from Trump could derail negotiations.
Meanwhile, mediators in Pakistan have reportedly advised Washington to tone down its rhetoric. They have also suggested presenting the talks as a mutual success for both countries to keep diplomatic efforts alive.
- With inputs from agencies
