Iran calls off talks with US, has informed Pakistan: NYT
Tensions in the Middle East have sharply escalated as Iran has reportedly halted negotiations with the United States and informed Pakistan that it will no longer participate in ceasefire efforts, according to The New York Times. Iranian officials confirmed that talks with Washington have been suspended.
The White House stated that only Donald Trump knows the next course of action, after he issued a stark warning that Iran could face devastating consequences if no agreement is reached. A deadline was set, with the U.S. signaling possible military escalation.
Trump intensified his rhetoric on social media, warning of severe destruction if diplomacy fails, while suggesting that a leadership change in Iran could bring a different future.
Meanwhile, military activity has increased across the region. Explosions were reported on Iran’s Kharg Island following alleged U.S. and Israeli airstrikes. Iran also reportedly launched attacks on a petrochemical facility in Saudi Arabia’s Jubail industrial city, though officials have not confirmed the damage.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian claimed that millions of citizens are prepared to defend the country. At the same time, Israel issued warnings to ships near southern Lebanon, citing threats from Hezbollah.
The United Nations condemned the escalating rhetoric, stressing that deliberate attacks on civilians or infrastructure would constitute war crimes. UN human rights chief Volker Turk urged all sides to reduce tensions and protect civilians.
The conflict, which began in late February, has already caused heavy casualties. Reports suggest thousands have been killed and injured in Iran. The UN Security Council is expected to vote on measures addressing threats to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route now partially blocked.
Further clashes have been reported in multiple areas. Missile attacks from Iran caused damage in central Israel, while Hezbollah claimed responsibility for strikes on Israeli positions. Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon reportedly resulted in casualties.
In Tehran, recent strikes damaged residential areas and reportedly destroyed a nearby synagogue. Additional attacks in Iran’s Alborz province killed several civilians, including children.
The ongoing crisis has also triggered a major global energy shock. According to the International Energy Agency, the current disruption—largely due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—is more severe than previous oil crises.
As tensions continue to rise, Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts are said to be at a critical stage, with officials attempting to prevent further escalation in an already volatile situation.