WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the United States will continue diplomatic talks with Iran at the Islamic Republic’s request, while declaring that an existing ceasefire between the two nations is over.
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said: “The Islamic Republic of Iran has asked us to continue ‘talks.’ We have agreed to do so, but the United States has stated to them, in no uncertain terms, that the Cease Fire is OVER!”
The declaration comes amid renewed military exchanges in the Persian Gulf region following a fragile ceasefire established earlier in 2026 as part of broader efforts to de-escalate the Iran-U.S. conflict. The temporary truce, which had been extended indefinitely in April, followed intense negotiations mediated in part by Pakistan and other regional actors. It aimed to halt direct hostilities that had disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and raised global energy concerns.
Trump made the remarks while addressing the NATO summit in Turkey earlier this week, where he described ongoing negotiations as potentially “a waste of time” but signaled openness to continued dialogue. U.S. officials have indicated that technical talks focused on securing peace and resuming safe maritime traffic will proceed despite the breakdown in the ceasefire.
The latest flare-up includes reported U.S. strikes on Iranian military targets and reciprocal actions, marking the second consecutive day of tit-for-tat exchanges. Pentagon statements emphasized the operations were intended to protect international shipping lanes. Iran has condemned the moves, while both sides appear to be balancing military posturing with diplomatic channels.
Analysts note that while rhetoric has sharpened, underlying interests—particularly stabilizing oil markets and avoiding a wider regional war—may keep both parties engaged in negotiations. The ceasefire had provided a framework for further discussions on a potential longer-term agreement, including nuclear issues and sanctions relief, though progress has been uneven.
The development has drawn international attention, with concerns over rising oil prices and implications for global supply chains. Markets reacted with volatility following Trump’s statement, underscoring the high stakes involved.
As of Friday morning, no immediate escalation to full-scale conflict has materialized, but the situation remains fluid. U.S. negotiators are expected to maintain contact with their Iranian counterparts through intermediaries, even as military vigilance continues in the Gulf.
