Standoff (noun)

1. A deadlock or impasse in a situation, especially a political or military one, where neither side is willing to make concessions.
2. A confrontation or dispute in which neither side will give way.
3. A situation in which two opposing forces or individuals remain at a distance from each other, unable or unwilling to make progress.

Origin:

Mid 19th century (originally us): from stand off in the sense "keep one's distance".

Examples:

1. The standoff between the two countries lasted for months, with no resolution in sight.
2. The standoff between the police and the protestors lasted for several hours, ending with a peaceful resolution.
3. The standoff between the two sides in the negotiations was finally broken with a surprise compromise.
4. The standoff between the manager and the workers was resolved after a series of intense negotiations.
5. The standoff between the armed men and the hostages was a tense and dangerous situation, requiring the intervention of a special forces unit.