Cease-Fire Between the U.S. and Iran Ends Without Extension
A two-week cease-fire between the United States and Iran came to an end Wednesday night, and renewed bombings are expected unless an agreement is reached, as indicated during a phone interview with President Trump.
Bloomberg reported that the cease-fire was set to end “Wednesday evening Washington time” and that an extension appears “very unlikely” unless Iran agrees to negotiate with the U.S. This announcement follows President Trump’s declaration of the ceasefire on April 7.
Trump also mentioned through PBS News that if negotiations do not conclude by the deadline, there would likely be “a ton of bombs” going off.
The remarks occur as a U.S. delegation led by Vice President J.D. Vance seems to be preparing for a second round of talks alongside an Iranian team in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Sources indicated that Vance, along with Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff, is expected to leave for Islamabad soon. However, by Monday evening, there were no confirmations of his departure, leaving uncertainty about when Vance would travel to the Middle East. According to two anonymous sources, Vance announced intentions to step down on Tuesday.
Iranian officials stated that if Vance attends, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, a key political and military figure from the prior meeting, would also be present.
This situation developed following reports suggesting that Iran might not be inclined to participate in a second round of discussions.
On Monday, Trump took to Truth Social to express that he would avoid any deal that is not favorable, citing pressure from Democrats as a concern.
Trump commented, “Democrats are doing everything they can to undermine the very strong position we have on Iran. Even though World War I lasted over four years and World War II lasted over six, they act like I promised to resolve this in six weeks. In reality, it was much quicker from a military perspective. Nonetheless, I won’t be rushed into a deal that isn’t the best option.” He rejected claims of any pressure to negotiate swiftly, insisting that time is not his “enemy.”
