Diplomacy Stalls as Iran and US Prepare for Further Escalation

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Diplomatic efforts to end the seven-month-old conflict between the United States and Iran remain stalled, while both sides prepare for the possibility of renewed military escalation.

Iran has reportedly begun reviewing plans to expand its potential targets if Washington resumes large-scale attacks. The possible targets could include US-linked facilities, countries supporting American military operations and sites outside the Middle East, according to Iranian officials cited by Reuters. Tehran has also instructed allied groups in Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq to remain ready to support Iran if the conflict intensifies.

At the same time, US President Donald Trump has warned that Washington could resume bombing Iran after the November midterm elections. Trump has rejected Tehran’s latest peace proposal, saying any agreement must meet tougher US demands, including restrictions on Iran’s nuclear programme.

The military pressure has increased alongside the threats. The USS Theodore Roosevelt carrier strike group and the USS Makin Island amphibious readiness group are heading toward the Middle East with thousands of sailors and Marines. Their deployment could bring three US aircraft carriers to the region by the end of October.

Washington has also imposed new sanctions on Iran’s major automobile manufacturers, Iran Khodro and SAIPA, as well as the country’s national railway company. The US Treasury Department says the measures are intended to restrict Tehran’s revenue and intensify economic pressure on the Iranian government.

Despite the worsening tensions, diplomatic channels remain open. Iran’s proposal reportedly calls for an end to hostilities, the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports, the release of at least $12 billion in frozen Iranian funds and relief from oil sanctions. In return, Tehran has offered to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy shipments, and halt regional fighting within seven days.

Iranian officials have received a US counterproposal through mediators, but major disagreements remain. Washington wants Iran’s nuclear programme included in any settlement, while Tehran says it will discuss the issue only after its demands are addressed.

With military deployments, sanctions and threats continuing, the prospect of a diplomatic breakthrough appears limited. Analysts warn that a renewed US attack could trigger a broader regional conflict, particularly if Iran follows through on plans to target American partners and other facilities beyond the Middle East.