Negotiations between the US and Iran are continuing for a second day in Pakistan, seeking an end to the six-week war. This meeting, the first direct US-Iran engagement in over a decade, focuses on a ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The conflict is significantly impacting global markets, including soaring oil prices.
President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum to Iran, warning the US is 'ready to go' if peace talks fail. Indirect talks are underway via Pakistan, but direct US-Iran dialogue has not been announced. Iran proposed a 10-point plan including an end to sanctions, while the US submitted a 15-point proposal focusing on nuclear restrictions.
US Vice President JD Vance met with Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif. This meeting precedes potential direct talks with Iran. If confirmed, it would be the highest-level in-person US-Iran talks since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Senior US and Iranian delegations met in Pakistan, but Iran cast doubt on the talks, stating they cannot begin without commitments on Lebanon and sanctions relief. These talks represent one of the highest-level US-Iran discussions since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, potentially marking the first direct dialogue since the 2015 nuclear deal. President Trump strongly criticized Iran, claiming they have no leverage other than short-term extortion.
Direct US-Iran talks in Islamabad collapsed after 21 hours, with Iranian media blaming Washington's 'excessive demands' for the deadlock. Iran rejected demands concerning the Strait of Hormuz and nuclear issues, while Chinese-affiliated outlets noted Iran's refusal to surrender enriched uranium stockpiles. With the ceasefire announced by President Trump nearing its end, uncertainty remains over Tehran's future engagement.
French President Emmanuel Macron urged Iran to reduce regional hostilities and ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. He backed Pakistan-hosted talks as a path toward a binding agreement. This dialogue is noted as one of the most significant direct US-Iran discussions since 1979.