Iran's Hardliners Rally Amidst Failed US Negotiations

Tensions escalated in Tehran as hardliners rallied following the collapse of US-Iran negotiations. The Revolutionary Guard showcased military power, including a ballistic missile, while President Trump extended a ceasefire, marking a significant shift in US policy. This article delves into the implications of these developments and the ongoing geopolitical dynamics in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 22, 2026, 11:32 IST

Tensions Rise in Tehran

Tehran: On Tuesday night, hardline factions in Iran organized demonstrations following the breakdown of proposed discussions with the United States in Islamabad. During these protests, members of the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were seen displaying a ballistic missile. Various videos from the events circulated online, showing armed individuals with Kalashnikov rifles alongside what appeared to be a Qadr ballistic missile on a mobile launcher in Tehran. Protesters chanted slogans against the US and Israel. Reports indicate that Qadr missiles can deploy bomblets, also referred to as cluster munitions, which Iran has previously utilized in attacks against Israel.

In a related development, US President Donald Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran. In a post on Truth Social, he stated that the ceasefire would remain effective until Iran's leadership can present a unified proposal and negotiations are finalized. Trump noted that the Iranian government is significantly divided, prompting the request to delay military action, which came from Asim Munir and Shehbaz Sharif, who are mediating between Washington and Tehran.

Trump's decision to prolong the ceasefire marks a significant shift from his previous threats to bomb Iran if an agreement was not reached before the ceasefire expired. This ceasefire was declared after diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict fell short. Despite the extension, Trump emphasized that the US Navy would continue to enforce the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that Iran is losing $500 million daily due to this blockade. He stated, "Iran doesn’t want the Strait of Hormuz closed, they want it open so they can make $500 Million Dollars a day (which is, therefore, what they are losing if it is closed!)." Trump further explained that Iran's calls for closure are merely a facade to save face, as they are eager to reopen the Strait for economic reasons.