The future of peace negotiations between the United States and Iran, is uncertain as a ceasefire deadline nears its expiration.
Donald Trump struck an optimistic tone about the prospects for renewed talks, even as questions remain over whether Tehran will participate.
“They’re going to negotiate,” Trump said, adding a warning: “If they don’t, they’re going to see problems like they’ve never seen before.”
Trump said the current ceasefire will end Wednesday evening local time and that it is “highly unlikely” he would extend it without a deal. He also made clear the U.S. military blockade of Iranian vessels would remain in place “until there is a ‘DEAL.’”
Vice President JD Vance is expected to lead the delegation to Islamabad for negotiations, alongside special envoy Steve Witkoff and presidential adviser Jared Kushner.
Iranian officials have responded with defiance, warning of escalation and rejecting negotiations under pressure.
Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, Tehran’s parliamentary speaker and a leading figure in negotiations, accused Trump of attempting to “justify renewed warmongering” by “imposing a siege and violating the ceasefire.”
In a post on X, Ghalibaf said, “We do not accept negotiations under the shadow of threats, and in the past two weeks, we have prepared to reveal new cards on the battlefield.”
Shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz remains significantly reduced as tensions persist.
Speaking to The Pavlovic Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries delivered a sharp critique of the administration’s strategy.
“There was no plan of action as it relates to Donald Trump, plunging us into this reckless war of choice. No clear objectives, certainly no exit strategy, and that’s why there’s no public support,” Jeffries said.
He also questioned the intelligence basis for the conflict, adding: “There was no intelligence to suggest that Iran presented an imminent threat to the national security interests of the United States of America,” citing classified briefings provided to congressional leadership.
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