Washington's ambivalence keeps Iran war in limbo

Amid stalled ceasefire talks and Trump’s threats to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, experts say the U.S. stance remains unclear: Washington signals a hard line while diplomatic efforts from regional partners continue, with a two-week window to see if Iran agrees to limits on its nuclear ambitions. Iranian leadership shifts and broader regional dynamics add uncertainty about whether hostilities will resume, and some analysts warn that a premature U.S. withdrawal could make future conflicts deadlier for allies, potentially drawing in China and others.