The United States has conducted airstrikes and naval operations against Iranian targets since February 28, 2026, without a congressional declaration of war, while pursuing parallel diplomatic efforts to conclude hostilities. Recent developments center on mediated talks in Islamabad and ongoing exchanges of peace proposals involving the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief, and limits on Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs, with Iran reviewing a U.S. memorandum that would formally end active fighting. President Trump has signaled openness to a deal while maintaining military deployments and threatening renewed strikes if progress stalls, and Iranian officials have countered with phased plans that prioritize halting the blockade before addressing other issues. These negotiations, alongside the existing ceasefire extended from April, represent the primary near-term factors that could either sustain the current stalemate or shift toward de-escalation before any potential formal war declaration.