The United States and Iran continue trading warnings while talks proceed on ending a Middle East war that began with US strikes on Feb. 28. In recent remarks, President Donald Trump says he has held off a planned new offensive against Iran, citing ongoing negotiations and the prospect of reaching a peace deal soon. He also says the US military remains prepared to carry out a “large-scale” assault or another strike if no acceptable agreement is reached. Iran responds by warning that any renewed US attack would trigger wider escalation. Iran’s army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) signal they could open “new fronts” and that any renewed conflict would extend beyond the region. On April 8, a shaky ceasefire goes into effect, and both sides continue exchanging proposals through intermediaries. Iran’s chief negotiator also warns that the United States seeks to “start new war,” while asserting that Iran would respond forcefully if attacks resume. Iranian officials and Gulf leaders are referenced in Trump’s account of why he postponed the planned offensive.