Trump says ceasefire ends Wednesday evening and a further extension is ‘highly unlikely’

Key Points:

• The US Air Force will extend the service life of its A-10 Thunderbolt jets until at least 2030, reversing plans to retire them this year following Congressional mandates and their proven utility in recent conflicts involving Iran.
• President Donald Trump expressed confidence that Iran will negotiate in upcoming talks in Pakistan, but warned of severe consequences if they do not, while also stating the current ceasefire is unlikely to be extended beyond Wednesday.
• Iranian officials have criticized US actions as provocative and an obstacle to diplomacy, with Iran currently not planning to reengage in talks immediately; meanwhile, tensions remain high with limited shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz.
• Senior US and Iranian officials are expected to meet in Pakistan for a potential second round of negotiations, though Iran's participation is uncertain amid ongoing disputes and mutual accusations of ceasefire violations.
• The Gulf region remains divided on the conflict with Iran, with countries like the UAE and Bahrain favoring a weakened Iran through continued conflict, while Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait show varying degrees of support for diplomatic solutions and de-escalation.