The United States, Iran, and regional mediators are negotiating a potential 45-day ceasefire that could pave the way for a permanent resolution to the ongoing conflict, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The talks, facilitated through Pakistani, Egyptian, and Turkish intermediaries, aim to stave off a dramatic escalation that could include large-scale strikes on Iranian civilian infrastructure and retaliatory attacks against Gulf energy and water facilities.
Deadline Extension and Operational Plans
President Trump extended his previously set deadline by 20 hours, pushing the expiration to Tuesday at 8pm ET. In a statement, Trump emphasized that the U.S. is 'in deep negotiations' with Iran and warned of severe consequences if a deal is not reached. Operational plans for a massive U.S.-Israeli bombing campaign against Iran's energy facilities reportedly stand ready, underscoring the urgency of the diplomatic efforts.
If they don't make a deal, I am blowing up everything over there,
Trump told Axios on Sunday.
Two-Phased Deal and Confidence-Building Measures
The mediators are pushing for a two-phased agreement. The first phase would involve a 45-day ceasefire during which negotiations for a permanent resolution would occur. The second phase would finalize the end of hostilities. Key sticking points include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the management of Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpile, which Tehran has leveraged as bargaining chips.
Mediators are exploring partial steps Iran could take on these issues to build confidence, while also seeking guarantees from the U.S. that any ceasefire would not merely be temporary. Iranian officials have expressed concerns about falling into a situation akin to Gaza or Lebanon, where ceasefires exist on paper but attacks can resume at any moment.
Concerns Over Regional Impact
Mediators have warned of catastrophic consequences if talks collapse, including potential Iranian retaliation against Gulf countries' critical energy and water infrastructure. As the clock ticks, the next 48 hours are seen as a critical window for reaching an agreement.