US President Donald Trump on Sunday accused Iran of a “total violation” of the ceasefire, citing reports of gunfire targeting vessels near the Strait of Hormuz.
In a strongly worded message, Trump warned that the United States could launch sweeping attacks on Iran’s critical infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, if Tehran fails to accept Washington’s proposed terms.
Despite the escalating rhetoric, he confirmed that US envoys are set to arrive in Pakistan to resume negotiations, signalling that diplomatic channels remain open.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains volatile.
Iran, which had briefly announced the reopening of the vital waterway, reversed the decision after the US refused to lift its blockade on Iranian shipping.
Reports indicate that at least two vessels came under fire while approaching the strait, while others were turned back by Iranian forces.
Ship-tracking data showed minimal movement, underscoring the renewed shutdown of one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Before the conflict, the strait handled roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments.
Its effective closure has triggered sharp fluctuations in global markets, with oil prices surging amid fears of prolonged disruption.
With the ceasefire nearing its expiry on Wednesday and negotiations still unresolved, the situation remains precarious.
While both Washington and Tehran signal openness to dialogue, continued military threats and mistrust risk derailing diplomatic efforts.
The coming days, particularly the next round of talks in Pakistan, are likely to determine whether the crisis moves towards de-escalation or further confrontation.
Diplomatic efforts continue
Despite rising tensions, both sides have indicated a willingness to continue talks.
Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf acknowledged some progress in recent discussions but said significant gaps remain, particularly over Iran’s nuclear programme and control of the strait.
Previous talks in Islamabad ended without a breakthrough.
Proposals reportedly included a 20-year suspension of Iran’s nuclear activities by the US, while Iran countered with a shorter three-to-five-year pause.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei reiterated a hardline stance, warning that Iran’s military was prepared to deliver “new bitter defeats” if provoked.
Meanwhile, Trump confirmed that Vice President JD Vance would not lead the upcoming US delegation to Pakistan, citing security concerns.
Earlier reports had suggested that Vance would head the negotiations in Islamabad.
Other senior officials are expected to represent Washington in the next round of talks, which are seen as critical to preventing further escalation.
Global energy markets on edge
The ongoing conflict, now in its eighth week, has created what analysts describe as one of the most severe shocks to global energy supplies in history.
A brief announcement of the strait’s reopening had led to a sharp drop in oil prices and a surge in stock markets, but the renewed closure threatens fresh volatility.
Hundreds of vessels remain stranded in the Gulf, while energy exporters have been forced to scale back production.
The uncertainty surrounding the strait continues to weigh heavily on global economic stability.
Calls for ceasefire extension grow
Amid the fragile situation, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has called for an extension of the ceasefire set to expire later this week.
Speaking at a diplomacy forum in Antalya, he said that while negotiations are progressing, key disagreements persist.
Fidan also warned that ongoing tensions could allow other actors to exploit the situation, particularly in Lebanon, where hostilities remain unresolved despite a separate ceasefire.
The conflict is also reshaping global alliances.
In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly seeking closer ties with the European Union as relations with Washington come under strain.
Trump has openly criticised Nato allies for refusing to join US military efforts against Iran, calling them “cowards” and intensifying diplomatic friction within the alliance.
