Lebanon’s president says negotiations ongoing to extend ceasefir
Tensions between the United States and Iran remain high despite a temporary ceasefire extension announced by US President Donald Trump. The move has delayed an immediate return to conflict, but major disputes over sanctions, maritime security, Iran’s nuclear programme and military pressure continue to threaten the fragile truce. With diplomatic efforts shifting to Islamabad, global attention is focused on whether negotiations can prevent a wider regional crisis.
At the centre of the standoff is the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping routes. Nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies pass through the narrow waterway during normal conditions, making any disruption a major concern for energy markets. Iran temporarily closed the route during the conflict, causing sharp oil price movements and fears of supply shortages. Although the passage was briefly reopened, Tehran later shut it again after accusing Washington of violating the ceasefire through naval enforcement actions and the seizure of an Iranian-linked vessel.
Trump has defended the continued US blockade, saying it is necessary to pressure Tehran into accepting a formal peace agreement. He claimed Iran was losing hundreds of millions of dollars each day because of restricted oil exports and said the blockade would remain until Iranian leaders present a unified proposal. At the same time, Trump warned that if talks fail, military escalation could follow quickly, raising concerns across international markets and diplomatic circles.
Iranian leaders have rejected the US approach, accusing Washington of trying to force surrender through threats rather than pursuing genuine diplomacy. Parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf said the United States wanted a "table of surrender" and warned Iran was prepared to reveal "new cards on the battlefield" if hostilities resumed. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also criticised what he described as "provocative actions and repeated ceasefire violations" by the US. President Masoud Pezeshkian said meaningful negotiations require trust, consistency and respect for commitments.
Pakistan has emerged as a key mediator and is preparing to host a fresh round of talks in Islamabad. The United States is reportedly planning to send Vice President JD Vance, but Iran’s participation remains uncertain. Reports in Iranian state media suggest Tehran may boycott the summit because of what it sees as excessive American demands and inconsistent positions. Security in Islamabad has been tightened ahead of the possible meeting.
This live blog tracks every major development including ceasefire updates, reactions from Washington and Tehran, movements in oil markets, shipping activity in the Strait of Hormuz, and the latest from the Islamabad peace talks. With trust low and rhetoric intensifying, the coming hours could prove decisive for the Middle East and the global economy.
