Iran-US war: Four scenarios for what’s next as talks stumble
Between an expiring ceasefire and a possible deal lies a range of ways in which the war could proceed, analysts say.
www.aljazeera.comThe latest reports say the Iran ceasefire is still fragile and is due to expire around Wednesday, with no confirmed extension yet. U.S. and Pakistani officials are still preparing for possible talks in Islamabad, but Tehran has not firmly confirmed attendance.
What’s happening now
- Pakistan is laying groundwork for a second round of U.S.-Iran talks in Islamabad.[6]
- U.S. officials say Vice President JD Vance is expected to lead the American side, but Iran has not locked in its delegation.[6]
- Trump has said he does not want to extend the ceasefire, though he still says he expects a “great deal”.[5]
Main risks
- Both sides are trading threats as the deadline approaches, raising the chance the truce lapses without a breakthrough.[7][6]
- Reuters and AP both describe the situation as uncertain, with diplomacy still possible but not assured.
- The ceasefire has largely held so far, but analysts say a last-minute extension or collapse remains possible.[1][2]
Best one-line read
The ceasefire is hanging by a thread: talks may still happen, but right now there is no clear sign of a durable extension or final deal.[6]