Efforts to broker a ceasefire in the ongoing US-Israel–Iran war appear stalled, as sources indicate that President Donald Trump has rejected attempts by Middle Eastern allies to open diplomatic negotiations. Oman and Egypt, which had previously mediated between the parties, sought to facilitate talks to end the conflict that began two weeks ago with a US-Israeli air assault on Iran.
However, Trump remains focused on military objectives, and Tehran has similarly refused to engage until strikes stop, signaling both sides are preparing for a prolonged conflict.
The war has already caused widespread disruption, with more than 2,000 people reported killed—mostly in Iran—and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz leading to severe interruptions in global oil shipments. President Trump’s decision to strike Iran’s Kharg Island, the country’s main oil export hub, and his insistence on continuing operations under “Operation Epic Fury” underscore the administration’s determination to weaken Tehran’s military capabilities. Iranian leadership, including new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed to maintain the closure of the Strait and continue military operations against neighboring countries.
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Diplomatic efforts through Oman and Egypt have so far failed to yield progress. Senior White House officials confirmed that Trump has rebuffed mediation efforts, emphasizing that the focus remains on pressing ahead with military operations. Iranian sources echoed this stance, saying Tehran will not consider ceasefire talks unless US and Israeli attacks end and demands, including compensation, are met. Attempts by Iran’s top security and foreign officials to use Oman as a conduit for negotiations, potentially involving US Vice President JD Vance, have not materialized.
The hardened positions on both sides suggest the conflict may escalate further, despite warnings from some US advisers about rising oil prices and the political cost for Trump ahead of midterm elections. Analysts say the standoff reflects a broader unwillingness from both Washington and Tehran to compromise, even as regional nations try to limit collateral damage and prevent further escalation.
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The ongoing crisis has strained international markets and heightened geopolitical tensions across the Gulf region. With both the US and Iran refusing to engage in diplomacy, experts caution that the war could have long-term consequences for energy security, regional stability, and global economic confidence.