US President Donald Trump offered mixed messages on Monday about the future of the ongoing conflict with Iran, saying he is in no rush to end the war while also expressing optimism that new negotiations could take place soon in Pakistan.
With a 14-day ceasefire set to expire on Wednesday, Trump alternated between warning of escalation and signalling openness to a deal. He said “lots of bombs” could go off if no agreement is reached, but also indicated that talks may resume shortly in Islamabad, led by Vice President JD Vance.
Iran, however, signalled reluctance to return to negotiations under pressure. Parliament speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf said Tehran would not accept talks “under the shadow of threats,” accusing Washington of seeking Iran’s surrender.
Tensions have remained high around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route. Recent clashes, including a US naval interception of an Iranian vessel and Tehran’s temporary halt of maritime traffic, have further strained the fragile ceasefire.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said US actions were “incompatible with the claim of diplomacy,” while offering no clear indication on whether Iran would rejoin talks after the truce expires.
Trump insisted he faces no pressure to end the conflict until Iran meets US demands. “I am under no pressure whatsoever,” he said in a social media post, adding that developments could unfold “relatively quickly.”
The US president also pushed back against domestic critics urging a swift resolution, while attempting to reassure markets amid volatility driven by the crisis. Oil prices have surged, with Brent crude rising to over $95 per barrel from about $70 before the conflict began.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue elsewhere in the region. Talks between Israel and Lebanon are expected to resume in Washington, aimed at addressing tensions involving the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.
Casualties have continued to mount. Iranian officials say more than 3,300 people have been killed since the conflict began, including hundreds of children. Additional deaths have been reported in Israel, Lebanon and among US forces deployed in the region.
The US has maintained a naval blockade on Iran, which Trump said will remain in place until a comprehensive agreement is reached.