Former national security adviser John Bolton criticized a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, calling the diplomatic pause a strategic error that provided Tehran with valuable preparation time.

Speaking on CNN Sunday, Bolton argued that the ceasefire was a mistake because it gave Iran a respite to strengthen its position. "I think it was a mistake to have the ceasefire," Bolton said. "They've got now a two-week breather where they're doing what they can."

Meanwhile, analysts are closely watching the emergence of Ahmad Vahidi as a prominent figure within Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as the ceasefire period approaches its end. Vahidi, described as a shadowy IRGC commander, is reportedly gaining influence within Iran's military structure.

The developments come as tensions between the United States and Iran continue amid ongoing regional conflicts. The ceasefire arrangement appears to be temporary, with observers noting that both sides are using the pause to reassess their positions and strategies.

Bolton's criticism reflects broader skepticism among some foreign policy officials about the effectiveness of diplomatic pauses with Iran, particularly regarding whether such agreements provide genuine opportunities for resolution or simply allow adversaries to regroup.