Ceasefire talks stall as Middle East conflict escalates

It’s Day 38 of the Middle East conflict and there’s still no sign of things slowing down.

Missiles, explosions, and smoke continue to dominate the skies over Tehran, Jerusalem, and parts of the Gulf, as both sides keep exchanging fire.

What’s going on: according to Reuters, Iran and the US have been presented with a ceasefire framework. The plan suggests an immediate ceasefire, followed by a more detailed agreement within 15 to 20 days.

Iran has also received a separate peace proposal via Pakistan, which includes reopening the crucial Strait of Hormuz. But Tehran isn’t convinced yet.

Iranian officials say they won’t reopen the strait just for a temporary ceasefire, and believe the US isn’t fully ready for a long-term deal. 

Fresh attacks by Israel and the US reportedly killed over 25 people in Iran, triggering retaliatory missile strikes from Tehran targeting Israel and nearby Gulf regions.

Adding to the pressure, US President Donald Trump has also issued a strong ultimatum to Iran, even warning of strikes on civilian sites, raising serious concerns. Iran has warned it will respond far more aggressively if Trump carries out threats to strike key infrastructure ahead of his Hormuz deadline.

Amid all this, India is staying engaged. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has spoken to both Iran and Qatar, as diplomatic efforts continue alongside the conflict.