US President Donald Trump said on Friday that the United States has agreed to continue negotiations with Iran, even as he declared that the ceasefire between the two countries has officially come to an end.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Iran had requested further discussions, but stressed that Washington no longer considers the ceasefire to be in effect.
“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!” Trump wrote.
Fighting Continues Despite Diplomatic Efforts
The latest statement came after both countries exchanged military strikes earlier this week.
Iran's armed forces launched attacks on US military infrastructure in Gulf states on Thursday. The strikes came in response to American attacks on Iran's southern coastal and eastern provinces.
The renewed violence has raised concerns that tensions between the two countries could escalate further, despite ongoing diplomatic contacts.
Interim Agreement Fails to Hold
Last month, the United States and Iran reached an interim agreement that ended a four-month conflict which had severely disrupted global energy supplies.
However, the agreement has failed to prevent fresh hostilities, with both sides returning to military action in recent days.
Trump has faced growing political pressure over his inability to bring the conflict to a lasting end. The continuing war has become a major issue ahead of the US midterm elections later this year, as Americans deal with rising fuel prices and increasing public dissatisfaction.
Trump Says Ceasefire Is No Longer Valid
While speaking in Ankara earlier this week, Trump said the ceasefire announced on April 8 was effectively over.
The truce had ended weeks of intense fighting but was repeatedly tested by smaller clashes between the two sides.
Trump also used harsh language while referring to Iranian officials, describing them as "scum" and "sick people."
US Keeps Diplomatic Channel Open
Despite declaring the ceasefire over, Trump indicated that diplomatic efforts would continue.
He said he planned to speak with businessman-turned-envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner, who have been leading discussions with Iran on behalf of the United States.
However, Trump insisted that it was Tehran's responsibility to take the next step if it wanted negotiations to move forward.
Strait of Hormuz Tensions Add to Crisis
The conflict has also spread to key maritime routes.
Iran has targeted commercial shipping in recent days, prompting retaliatory US strikes. Tehran has also launched drones and missiles at American military assets across West Asia, further increasing regional tensions.
The attacks have renewed concerns over security in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil shipping routes.
Qatar Steps Up Mediation Efforts
Amid the renewed fighting, a delegation from Qatar arrived in Iran on Friday to hold talks, according to local media reports.
The visit is seen as part of Doha's efforts to reduce tensions and revive dialogue between Washington and Tehran.
According to Tasnim news agency, “The main purpose of the visit is reportedly to try to reinforce Qatar’s role as a mediator following events on Tuesday,” after Qatar accused Iran of attacking an LNG carrier. Two other tankers were also reportedly struck in the Strait of Hormuz.
The renewed diplomatic push comes as regional powers seek to prevent the latest escalation from developing into a broader conflict that could further disrupt global energy markets.