Trump halts diplomacy push, says Iran war ‘on hold’

US President Donald Trump has abruptly cancelled a planned diplomatic mission to Pakistan aimed at advancing peace talks with Iran, signalling continued uncertainty over efforts to de-escalate tensions that have disrupted global energy markets.

Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Trump said the decision was taken after he found Iran’s negotiating stance unconvincing. He indicated that a revised proposal from Tehran was received shortly after the trip was called off, though he did not provide details about its contents. Despite the setback, the US president suggested that hostilities were not set to resume immediately.

The visit, which was expected to involve senior representatives including special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, had been framed by the White House as part of broader efforts to move closer to a diplomatic agreement. However, Trump said there was little value in continuing discussions without substantive progress.

The development comes as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi concluded talks in Islamabad with Pakistan’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military chief Asim Munir, who have been seen as key intermediaries. Iranian officials described the meetings as constructive, though they also expressed doubts about Washington’s willingness to engage meaningfully.

Diplomatic prospects had already appeared fragile. Iranian state media indicated there were no immediate plans for direct talks with US officials, with Pakistan instead acting as a conduit for proposals. Tehran has maintained that negotiations cannot proceed while pressure measures, including maritime restrictions, remain in place.

Tensions have been further heightened by the continued disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and gas supplies. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have signalled they intend to maintain control over the waterway, describing it as a strategic lever in the broader confrontation. In response, the United States has imposed countermeasures affecting Iranian port operations.

The standoff has intensified concerns across energy markets, as limited shipping continues through the strait. European officials have called for the immediate reopening of the route, warning of wider implications for global supply chains and economic stability.

Meanwhile, violence has also escalated on the Lebanese front. Israeli forces have carried out strikes in southern Lebanon following accusations that Hezbollah violated a recently extended ceasefire. Lebanese authorities reported casualties from multiple locations, while Israel said it had targeted armed operatives linked to the group.

The fragile security situation has added to uncertainty across the region, with civilians expressing concern about the possibility of renewed conflict. Despite recent diplomatic overtures, the combination of stalled negotiations, military activity, and ongoing disruption to key energy corridors suggests that a lasting resolution remains elusive.