Axios: Trump's Ultimatum Deadline Approaching, Low Probability of Ceasefire Agreement

A US official told Axios that the White House's thinking has shifted from 'whether we can reach a deal' to 'whether we can reach a deal by tonight at 8 PM,' indicating increased time pressure. If an agreement cannot be reached by the deadline, hostilities will see an unprecedented escalation. Sources indicate the two major challenges are: how to satisfy Iran's demand for 'strong guarantees' ensuring the US and Israel will not restart hostilities after a temporary ceasefire; and the slow response from senior Iranian officials. The Wall Street Journal reported that Iran has cut off direct communication with the US; The New York Times reported that Iran is withdrawing from negotiations. Iranian state media 'Tehran Times' denied these claims. Axios has not yet confirmed any interruption of negotiations by Iran. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that only Trump himself knows 'the current progress and what action he will take.' (Editor: Hong Qi-yuan) 1150408