Donald Trump says the ceasefire agreement with Iran is effectively over, blasting the country's leadership as ‘scum’ and ‘cuckoo’ after fresh exchanges of fire. He has expressed little confidence in further negotiations, but said American officials could continue talks if they wished. The latest escalation followed attacks on commercial shipping and subsequent US military strikes, with Iran responding by targeting US military sites in neighbouring countries. The USA has also reinstated sanctions affecting Iranian oil exports, while Iranian leaders have accused Washington of violating previous agreements. The renewed confrontation has increased concerns about regional stability and caused oil prices to rise, although they remain below earlier peaks. With both sides accusing each other of breaking commitments, uncertainty now surrounds the prospects for renewed diplomacy and a lasting settlement to the conflict.