U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of a sharp escalation in the Iran conflict, saying “lots of bombs start going off” if the fragile ceasefire collapses without a breakthrough in negotiations. His remarks come at a critical moment as diplomatic efforts struggle to keep pace with rising military tensions.

Speaking in a phone interview with PBS News, Trump made it clear that the United States is prepared to resume military action immediately if talks fail. The warning underscores the high stakes surrounding the expiring ceasefire and the uncertain path forward for diplomacy.

A U.S. delegation is expected to travel to Islamabad for another round of negotiations aimed at ending the conflict. However, uncertainty looms over Iran’s participation. Trump noted that Tehran was “supposed to be there,” but added that the outcome would not hinge on its presence alone.

At the center of Washington’s position is a firm demand that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons. Trump reiterated this stance, calling it a “very simple” condition for any agreement. On the other side, Iran has resisted engaging under pressure. Senior Iranian figure Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf stated that Tehran would not accept negotiations conducted under threats, highlighting the deep divide between the two sides.

In parallel with diplomatic efforts, the United States has continued its strategy of military and economic pressure. A naval blockade targeting Iranian ports remains in place, while Washington has pushed for the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz—a vital route for global oil shipments.

The ongoing disruption in the strait has added volatility to global energy markets, increasing pressure on both sides to reach an agreement. The two-week ceasefire, agreed earlier this month, is now nearing its expiration, with Trump signaling that an extension is “highly unlikely.”

Despite the escalating rhetoric, Trump expressed confidence in his negotiating team, describing it as an “A-team,” and suggested that a successful deal could stabilize the region and even lower global oil prices.

As the deadline approaches, the situation remains precarious. The coming days will determine whether diplomacy can prevent renewed conflict or whether the region will slip back into a cycle of military escalation with far-reaching global consequences.