Iran has warned it has “new cards to play” on the battlefield, as tensions with the United States remain high over the continued blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, Tehran is preparing to respond after what he described as renewed pressure from Washington. In a statement shared on social media, he accused the US of attempting to justify further confrontation by maintaining what he called a siege and undermining an already fragile ceasefire.
Ghalibaf said Iran would not enter negotiations “under the shadow of threats,” adding that preparations had been made over the past two weeks for potential next steps. However, he did not specify what those “new cards” might involve, and details remain unclear.
On the US side, President Donald Trump has made it clear the blockade will remain in place unless Iran agrees to a broader peace deal. Speaking in an interview with Bloomberg, Trump indicated the current ceasefire is unlikely to be extended beyond Wednesday if no agreement is reached.
He also reiterated that US restrictions on Iranian maritime activity would continue “until there is a deal,” reinforcing Washington’s hardline position.
Despite diplomatic efforts, both sides have yet to confirm a second round of direct talks, reportedly expected to take place in Islamabad. US Vice President JD Vance was anticipated to travel to Pakistan, although reports about the timing of his visit have been inconsistent.
The situation leaves negotiations in limbo, with both sides maintaining firm positions and signaling little willingness to compromise under current conditions.