WASHINGTON/ISLAMABAD, April 21: US President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Iran if no agreement is reached before the end of a fragile two-week ceasefire set to expire on Wednesday, sharply escalating tensions as Pakistan continues efforts to mediate talks between Washington and Tehran.
His remarks come amid growing uncertainty over whether the planned second round of negotiations will take place in Islamabad.
Trump warned that if the ceasefire ends without a deal, military action could resume immediately, saying he expects “bombing” if diplomacy fails. He also rejected the idea of extending the truce, insisting Iran must negotiate within the deadline.
“They have to negotiate,” he said, while adding that he still believes a deal is possible and could help Iran recover economically and regain stability.
The ceasefire is scheduled to end at 4:50 am PST on Wednesday. Pakistan, which has taken on a mediating role, has urged both sides to extend the truce and allow diplomacy more time.
Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said Islamabad is still waiting for Iran’s formal confirmation on participation in the next round of talks and stressed that Tehran’s decision before the deadline is critical.
Earlier reports suggested that senior US officials, including Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, could travel to Islamabad, while Iranian representatives were also expected.
However, there has been no official confirmation from either side, increasing uncertainty over whether the negotiations will go ahead.
Trump reiterated his hardline position, claiming that US operations have already significantly weakened Iran’s military capabilities, including its navy, air force, and leadership structure.
He suggested the situation reflects “regime change,” although he did not present it as an official US objective.
At the same time, he expressed confidence that a diplomatic breakthrough could still be achieved, saying the US is positioned to secure a “great deal.”
He further stated that Iran has “no choice” but to engage in talks, while emphasising that any agreement must ensure Tehran does not acquire nuclear weapons.
Trump also said a deal would help stabilise global oil markets and prevent further economic disruption.
Pakistan has intensified diplomatic engagement to prevent escalation. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met US and Iranian officials in Islamabad and urged both sides to extend the ceasefire and return to negotiations.
He also held discussions with counterparts from China, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, all of whom stressed the importance of dialogue for regional stability.
China has publicly supported Pakistan’s mediation role, praising its efforts to facilitate communication between the two sides.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has deployed more than 10,000 security personnel in preparation for possible high-level diplomatic visits.
Authorities remain on alert, although the situation is still fluid and no confirmed travel plans have been announced.
Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, tensions remain high. The ceasefire has already been strained by maritime confrontations in the Gulf region, including reports that US naval forces intercepted and seized an Iranian cargo vessel allegedly attempting to bypass a blockade. The incident further heightened distrust between the two sides.
Iran is also believed to be seeking leverage through its control of the Strait of Hormuz, aiming for sanctions relief while resisting restrictions on its nuclear programme—one of the key sticking points in negotiations.
As the deadline approaches, uncertainty continues to dominate. While mediators push for an extension and renewed dialogue, the lack of confirmed participation from either Washington or Tehran leaves the future of talks—and the risk of renewed conflict—deeply uncertain. (AP)
