Uncertainty surrounds US-Iran peace talks as ceasefire nears expiration

A two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran is scheduled to expire on Wednesday evening, with significant uncertainty remaining regarding the resumption of peace talks in Pakistan. While anonymous Pakistani sources suggest momentum for negotiations to begin on Wednesday, officials from both Washington and Tehran have provided conflicting reports on whether a delegation will be sent. President Donald Trump has expressed doubt about extending the ceasefire, threatening military action if demands remain unmet. Conversely, Tehran has condemned the US seizure of the Iranian vessel Touska and warned of potential retaliation, with Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stating that Iran will not negotiate under threat. Markets reacted to the possibility of talks, with oil prices dipping as investors remain cautious. Vice President JD Vance's travel status to Pakistan remains unconfirmed, while mediators in Islamabad continue efforts to facilitate a meeting. Meanwhile, Iran maintains that no final decision on participation has been reached, emphasizing that they will not bow to international pressure.