Iran war: What is happening on day 53 of the US-Israel conflict?

Iran war: What is happening on day 53 of the US-Israel conflict?Diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israel war on Iran are stalled as Tehran rejects talks under pressure.Published On 21 Apr 2026Diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israel war on Iran remain uncertain, with Tehran refusing to negotiate under what it calls the “shadow of threats”.United States President Donald Trump has said the blockade of Iranian ports will remain until a deal is reached, but Tehran wants it lifted before the talks. A two-week ceasefire expires on Wednesday.Meanwhile, Washington is also preparing for talks between Israel and Lebanon on Thursday, even as Israeli forces continue with their strikes in southern Lebanon. At least six people were wounded and homes destroyed in the attacks despite a 10-day ceasefire.Here is what we know:In Iran: Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran is “ready to show new cards on the battlefield” if clashes with the US resume after the ceasefire ends. Iran reopened Imam Khomeini and Mehrabad airports after weeks of war-related closures, aviation authorities said. The US wants Iran to halt its nuclear programme and hand over enriched uranium, a demand Tehran rejects. Iran says its nuclear programme is for research purposes and that it does not intend to make an atomic bomb. Iran has sought the release of its frozen assets and compensation for damage caused by US and Israeli strikes. Academic Zohreh Kharazmi said Tehran believes it holds the upper hand and will not negotiate “under the shadow of threats”, arguing Trump is “really in need of the negotiations”, though Iran would prefer to avoid renewed fighting. War diplomacy: The Department of State will hold new talks on Thursday following a fragile ceasefire, a US official told the AFP news agency. A US team is expected to travel to Pakistan “soon” for further negotiations, though Iran has not confirmed participation.