The United States is preparing a new diplomatic push toward Iran, while escalating its rhetoric. A US delegation is set to travel to Pakistan to resume negotiations, as tensions intensify around the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump announced that an American delegation will head to Pakistan on Monday in an effort to restart negotiations with Iran. The move follows the collapse of previous talks held in Islamabad on April 12.

The new diplomatic effort comes just days before the expiration of a fragile ceasefire, raising concerns over a potential escalation.

Strong warnings from Washington

In a message posted on Truth Social, Donald Trump accused Iran of breaching the ceasefire by launching attacks in the Strait of Hormuz. He warned that Washington could target key Iranian infrastructure if negotiations fail.

The US president said he was offering Tehran a “reasonable deal,” but threatened severe consequences — including strikes on power plants and bridges — if Iran refuses.

Strait of Hormuz at the center of the crisis

Tensions have surged after Iran announced it would reimpose strict control over the Strait of Hormuz, reversing an earlier decision to reopen the vital shipping lane.

The move comes in response to the continued US blockade of Iranian ports. The strait is a critical global energy route, with around one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas trade passing through it.

Mixed signals despite diplomatic efforts

Despite the tough stance, Donald Trump also referred to “very good conversations” with Iranian leaders, suggesting that a longer-term de-escalation may still be possible.

This dual approach – combining pressure and diplomacy – highlights the uncertainty surrounding the crisis and the fragile prospects for a breakthrough in the Middle East.