President Donald Trump said he does not intend to extend the current ceasefire with Iran, signaling a harder stance as the deadline for a potential agreement approaches and negotiations hang in the balance.

Speaking to CNBC, Trump dismissed the idea of prolonging the temporary halt in hostilities. “I don’t want to do that. We don’t have that much time,” he said, as the ceasefire is set to expire.

“I think we’re in a very strong negotiating position to do what other Presidents should’ve done during a 47-year period — 47 years with these bloodthirsty people,” he added.

Trump: “The blockade has been a tremendous success. They said two days ago, we will open the strait. I said, no, we’re not going to open the strait until we have a final deal… We totally control the strait, just so you understand.”

U.S. officials have indicated that another round of talks with Iran could take place in Islamabad, Pakistan. A senior Iranian official also suggested that Tehran is considering participation, though neither side has formally confirmed the timing.

Trump expressed confidence in Washington’s negotiating position, suggesting the U.S. is well-positioned to secure favorable terms. At the same time, he warned that military action could quickly resume if diplomacy fails.

“Iran can get themselves in a very good footing if they make a deal. They can make themselves into a strong nation again, a wonderful nation again. They have incredible people… they have to use reason, and they have to use common sense.”

“I expect to be bombing because I think that’s a better attitude to go in with,” Trump said. “But we’re ready to go. I mean, the military is raring to go.”

According to regional officials, preparations for talks are moving forward behind the scenes. Pakistani intermediaries have been told that Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf are expected to arrive in Islamabad to lead their respective delegations.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the talks are expected to take place as the ceasefire deadline looms, though public confirmation remains limited. Iranian state media has denied that any officials have already traveled to Pakistan.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)