Iran mediators make last-ditch push for 45-day ceasefire

Source: msn/Axios

10h


The U.S., Iran and a group of regional mediators are discussing the terms for a potential 45-day ceasefire that could lead to a permanent end to the war, according to four U.S., Israeli and regional sources with knowledge of the talks.

Why it matters: The sources said the chances for reaching a partial deal over the next 48 hours are slim. But this last-ditch effort is the only chance to prevent a dramatic escalation in the war that will include massive strikes on Iranian civilian infrastructure and a retaliation against energy and water facilities in the Gulf states.

Driving the news: President Trump's 10-day deadline to Iran was expected to expire Monday evening. But on Sunday, Trump extended his deadline by 20 hours and posted on Truth Social a new deadline of Tuesday at 8pm ET.

Trump told Axios on Sunday that the U.S. is "in deep negotiations" with Iran and that a deal can be reached before his deadline expires on Tuesday.

"There is a good chance, but if they don't make a deal, I am blowing up everything over there," he said.

Such attacks could constitute war crimes, and Iran has threatened to retaliate with attacks against infrastructure in Israel and the Gulf states.