US and Iran Weigh 2-Week Extension of Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Talks

The United States and Iran are reportedly considering a short extension of their ongoing ceasefire, which is set to expire on Tuesday, in an effort to create more time for diplomatic negotiations aimed at reaching a long-term peace agreement.

According to sources familiar with the discussions, mediators between the two sides are working to organize technical-level talks focused on resolving key sticking points. These include the status of Iran’s nuclear enrichment program and the reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy shipping route.

While discussions are ongoing, no final agreement has been reached. A U.S. official noted that Washington has not yet approved the extension, and the outcome remains uncertain. Iranian officials have also not issued a formal response regarding the proposed continuation of the truce.

Both sides, however, are believed to have little interest in returning to full-scale conflict. Former U.S. President Donald Trump suggested the situation is “close to over,” signaling cautious optimism about de-escalation.

The conflict, which escalated earlier this year, has significantly impacted regional stability and energy markets, particularly after disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the ceasefire, underlying disagreements remain unresolved, especially over Iran’s right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes versus U.S. demands for strict limits to prevent weaponization.

Iran has maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful and non-negotiable in principle, although officials have indicated that the level of enrichment could still be discussed. Meanwhile, the Israel continues to closely monitor developments as regional tensions remain high.

Diplomatic efforts are continuing through indirect channels, including recent meetings involving senior representatives from both sides in Islamabad, though those talks ended without a breakthrough.

As negotiations continue, the coming days are expected to be critical in determining whether the fragile ceasefire can be extended or if the region risks renewed escalation.