Iran is escalating its threats with a fragile ceasefire nearing its expiration date. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned on Monday that Tehran is prepared for a military uptick if diplomatic discussions fail.
According to Ghalibaf, Trump aims to turn the negotiating table into one of capitulation following his siege and the ceasefire violations. He expressed that negotiations cannot occur under threat and asserted Iran’s readiness to reveal new strategies on the battlefield.
This warning comes just as a two-week ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan and declared on April 8, is set to lapse. Ghalibaf had previously led Iran’s negotiation team in talks with U.S. officials in Islamabad.
Vice President JD Vance is expected to return to Pakistan for additional discussions ahead of the ceasefire’s deadline. Yet, Tehran is already indicating a lack of cooperation.
In recent days, Iranian officials have adopted a tougher stance, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz. After initially stating the waterway would remain open, Iran’s military reversed course and reinstated strict controls.
Trump rebutted those claims, asserting that the Strait was still “COMPLETELY OPEN” in a post on Truth Social, emphasizing ongoing U.S. pressure. He mentioned that this would remain until a satisfactory ‘DEAL’ is reached regarding Iranian-linked shipping.
The Iranian military then stated that control over the Strait has reverted to its prior state, warning that restrictions would persist while the U.S. blockade continues.
Meanwhile, Iran’s leaders are expressing skepticism about the upcoming talks. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei remarked that Tehran refuses to negotiate under duress and might even bypass the Islamabad meetings entirely.
He emphasized that any U.S. delegation visiting Islamabad is a matter for them and that Iran will not entertain deadlines or ultimatums that threaten its national interests.
As the deadline approaches, both nations appear firmly entrenched in their positions, heightening the risk of renewed conflict.
