Ahead of peace talks between the US and Iran, Pakistan's Prime Minister met with senior officials from both sides. A US official denied reports that frozen Iranian assets had been released. It remains unclear if Pakistan's mediation efforts will lead to substantive dialogue.
US and Iranian delegations began war talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, with Iran submitting proposals including issues like the Strait of Hormuz and a regional ceasefire. Reports indicated that the US had not yet agreed to unfreeze Iranian assets during the talks. Although both sides are attempting constructive dialogue, Iran's preconditions are casting uncertainty over the negotiations.
The US denied reports claiming Washington unfroze Iranian assets in Qatar and foreign banks ahead of talks in Islamabad. A senior US official stated that negotiations have not begun as meetings with Iranian officials in Pakistan have not started. Iran had suggested the asset release was linked to ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, but the US refuted this.
US and Iran are set to meet in Islamabad, with Lebanese ceasefire and sanctions relief dominating the agenda. Iran prioritizes resolving the Lebanon conflict, while the US demands concessions on its nuclear and missile programs. Experts note the talks are transactional, emphasizing the need for stable oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz.
US politician Vance visited Pakistan for war talks concerning Iran. This is interpreted as part of an effort to de-escalate tensions and seek a diplomatic resolution in the Middle East. The visit could signal an important step toward improving US-Iran relations or managing the conflict.
A senior U.S. official denied that the United States has agreed to release frozen Iranian assets, contradicting earlier media reports. While U.S. and Pakistani delegations are meeting, the official stated that negotiations regarding the asset release have not yet begun. This move underscores the current lack of concrete progress in US-Iran financial discussions.
High-level talks between the US and Iran have begun in Pakistan to resolve the Iran war, focusing on Strait of Hormuz passage and lasting peace. Key issues include sanctions, maritime control, nuclear matters, and the Lebanon conflict, with both sides presenting competing preconditions. These talks aim to alleviate regional instability and mitigate global economic impact.
The EBRD plans to deploy EUR 5 billion in 2026 to support economies affected by the Middle East conflict. This aid targets directly impacted countries like Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon, as well as neighboring regions. The initial phase will focus on stabilizing financial systems, while the long-term goal is to strengthen resilience and promote sustainable growth.
US Vice President JD Vance met with Pakistan's Prime Minister to seek a peaceful resolution to the Israel-Iran conflict. Iran insisted on a truce in Lebanon and the unfreezing of its assets for negotiations to proceed. President Donald Trump emphasized ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains open and preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
US delegation led by JD Vance began high-stakes peace talks with Iranian officials in Pakistan. The talks aim to end a six-week war but face hurdles due to differing demands from both sides. Iran has conditioned discussions on an Israeli ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of blocked assets.