Iran attacks Kuwait, Israel after Trump sets deadline for deal

Analysts suggest that Donald Trump's plan to seize Iran's Kharg Island, a crucial oil hub handling 90% of Iran's crude shipments, carries significant risks due to its strategic location in the Persian Gulf. Kharg Island is located 33km off the Iranian mainland, placing it within range of Iranian missiles and drones, and 660km from the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration is considering this action to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait, which has been effectively shut in response to US-Israeli strikes that began on February 28. Trump's recent speech hinted at further strikes and the nearing completion of "Operation Epic Fury," raising concerns about a potential US seizure of Kharg Island amidst increasing American troop presence in the region. Trump has repeatedly threatened to seize the island since the start of the US-Israeli military campaign.

Yemen's Houthis have entered the regional conflict between Iran and its enemies, the US and Israel, with a confirmed attack on Israel in March 2026. While the Houthis align with Iran's broader strategy as part of the "Axis of Resistance," they maintain a degree of independence in their decision-making. Iran provides support, expertise, and political cover, but the Houthis prioritize their domestic objectives in Yemen, where they control Sanaa and much of the northwest. This allows them to leverage regional escalations to serve their own project within Yemen, without directly mirroring the actions of other Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah. The Houthis' relationship with Iran is an unequal partnership that allows them to act in their own interests.

Donald Trump has expressed interest in seizing Iranian oil, specifically targeting Kharg Island, a key export hub. This statement, made amidst ongoing conflict between the US and Iran, has drawn criticism and raised questions about the true motives behind the war. Experts suggest Trump's desire reflects a belief in "fossil-fuel imperialism," where the US is entitled to resources it desires. Trump has threatened to obliterate Iran's energy infrastructure, including Kharg Island, if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened and a peace deal reached quickly. Iran has attacked a crude oil tanker anchored at Dubai port. Trump is expected to provide an update on the Iran war on Wednesday.

China and Pakistan jointly proposed a five-point plan on Tuesday aimed at de-escalating the Iran crisis, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the start of peace negotiations. Chinese analysts view the plan as a practical step towards renewed diplomacy. This initiative signals an effort to influence the post-war Middle East order, particularly as the traditional US-led security structure faces challenges. Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia have formed a united regional diplomatic front, seeking to establish a distinct peace-broker channel separate from Western efforts. The China-Pakistan plan emerged after discussions in Beijing between the foreign ministers of both countries. The collective goal is to prevent further escalation and the potential disruption of global energy routes.

In March 2026, amidst an escalating US-Israel war on Iran, Pakistan offered to host peace talks between Iran and the United States. Pakistan's Foreign Minister convened a meeting with Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt, expressing Islamabad's readiness to broker meaningful discussions. Given Pakistan's close ties with both Tehran and Washington, it is seen as a potential facilitator for ending the conflict that began the previous month. Experts suggest this initiative could mark the beginning of a diplomatic effort to achieve a peaceful resolution. The feasibility of reaching a peace deal was discussed with analysts including a former Pakistani UN representative and directors from the International Crisis Group and TEPAV.

China has pledged to increase "strategic coordination" with Pakistan regarding the Iran crisis, aiming to promote dialogue and help end the conflict. This announcement followed Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's arrival in Beijing for his second visit in three months. China has expressed support for Pakistan's role as a mediator in the situation. The two countries released a five-point proposal calling for a ceasefire, an immediate halt to strikes against non-military targets, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. China and Pakistan, describing themselves as "all-weather strategic cooperative partners," aim to jointly promote peace and stability in the region through these efforts.

Pakistan and China have jointly proposed a five-part peace plan for the Middle East, following a meeting between Pakistani and Chinese foreign ministers in Beijing. Pakistan is seeking to play a peacemaking role between the United States and Iran amidst ongoing conflict. The proposal emphasizes dialogue and diplomacy as the solution, calling for an immediate ceasefire and protection of waterways. Pakistan has been actively communicating with leaders from the US, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt, positioning itself as a mediator and offering Islamabad as a location for peace talks. China, while maintaining neutrality, has expressed concern for the safety of its oil tankers and called for a ceasefire.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump threatened to seize or destroy Iran's Kharg Island, its main oil export hub, if Tehran does not agree to a deal with the US. Nearly all of Iran's oil exports depend on Kharg Island. The potential takeover, possibly involving ground troops, is part of escalating tensions between the US and Iran. Analysts suggest the US may be trying to gain leverage in negotiations with Iran by threatening its oil exports. The strategic importance of Kharg Island raises concerns about the potential impact on the conflict and global energy markets.

A Kuwaiti oil tanker anchored at Dubai port was struck by an Iranian drone, causing a fire and damage to the vessel's hull. The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, hours after former President Trump threatened to target Iran's energy infrastructure if it didn't open the Strait of Hormuz. No injuries were reported, and the fire was quickly extinguished. The attack is the latest in a series of strikes on merchant vessels in the region. The US has accused Iran of using diplomacy as a cover for further attacks, while continuing to give mixed messages about ending the war that the US started together with Israel. The Philippines, heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil imports, is particularly vulnerable to economic shocks resulting from the conflict.

European officials report that Iran is pressuring the Houthi rebels in Yemen to prepare for renewed attacks on Red Sea shipping. This action is reportedly contingent on further escalation by the US against Iran. Houthi leaders are considering more aggressive actions after launching ballistic missiles at Israel. Internal divisions exist within the Houthi leadership regarding the extent of aggression. While the Houthis announced they would continue military operations until US-Israeli attacks on Iran and its proxies cease, they did not explicitly state they would target Red Sea vessels. US and Saudi Arabian officials believe the Houthis currently aim to avoid further escalation and attacks on American and Saudi assets.

The US-Israeli war against Iran has intensified, with Israel striking targets across Tehran and Iran launching strikes on Israel, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. This escalation follows attacks on Iranian electrical facilities, causing widespread power outages. The conflict has severely impacted the global economy, leading to fuel shortages in Asia, stock market instability, and soaring oil prices. Amidst the fighting, an Indonesian peacekeeper was killed in southern Lebanon, prompting a UN investigation. US President Trump claimed "regime change" had been achieved in Iran due to the deaths of Iranian leaders and expressed optimism about reaching a deal with the new, "more reasonable" leadership soon.

In late March 2026, tensions escalated in the Gulf region as Iran launched attacks across the area, including a strike on a power and desalination plant in Kuwait that killed an Indian worker. Gulf states reported intercepting drones and missiles amidst the ongoing conflict. Simultaneously, United States President Donald Trump stated his desire to "take the oil in Iran" during an interview. Iran accused Washington of planning a ground attack, despite the U.S. publicly advocating for a negotiated resolution. These events occurred against the backdrop of ongoing US-Iran negotiations and broader concerns about regional stability. The attacks and statements heightened fears of further escalation in the region.

Iran has accused the United States of secretly planning a ground assault while publicly seeking negotiations, amidst ongoing tensions. This accusation comes as the conflict, which has already caused significant global energy disruption, enters its second month. President Trump stated in an interview that he would prefer to seize Iranian oil and suggested that taking Kharg Island, a crucial Iranian export hub, would be easy. The situation is developing, and the potential seizure of Iranian crude oil is significant for Cuba, which is currently experiencing severe fuel shortages due to a lack of imports. Cuba's president has stated that the country has not received any oil imports for three months.

Donald Trump threatened to "obliterate" Iran's energy grid and water plants if a ceasefire is not reached "shortly" in the ongoing conflict instigated by the US and Israel. This threat, made via social media, includes targeting Kharg Island, a major oil export facility. Trump claims to be in "serious discussions" with a "more reasonable regime" in Tehran to reach a deal, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has described US peace proposals as "excessive" and acknowledged receiving a 15-point proposal from the Trump administration after talks with other nations. The White House indicated Trump would seek financial assistance from Arab countries to cover the war costs, while also expressing a preference to "take the oil in Iran," potentially requiring a US troop seizure of Kharg Island.

The article discusses the possibility of the U.S. seizing Iran's Kharg Island, its main oil export terminal, located in the northern Gulf. President Trump has indicated he may send troops to take control of the island, through which 90% of Iran's oil exports pass. The potential operation aims to pressure Iran into relinquishing control of the Strait of Hormuz and conceding to U.S. demands. The U.S. has nearly 5,000 Marines and 2,000 paratroopers in the region, who could potentially be used in an airborne or amphibious assault. However, Iran has reinforced its defenses on Kharg Island and warned of retaliation, making any such operation highly risky.

Donald Trump threatened to attack Iranian infrastructure, including desalination plants, if a deal isn't reached with a "new regime" to end US military operations in Iran and if the Hormuz Strait isn't open for business. Trump stated the US would obliterate electric plants, oil wells, Kharg Island, and possibly desalination plants. A legal expert stated that targeting civilian sites like desalination plants would constitute "collective punishment," which is prohibited under international law, specifically the Fourth Geneva Convention. The expert added that deliberately harming an entire civilian population to pressure its government is illegal.

One month after the US and Israel began military operations against Iran on February 28, 2026, Yemen's Houthi rebels have opened a new front by attacking Israel. The Houthis launched missile and drone attacks on Israel, which were reportedly intercepted, pledging further action in support of allies. This escalation raises concerns about the conflict spiraling out of control, as Iran has already disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis' involvement also threatens to disrupt Red Sea traffic via the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, potentially impacting Israeli trade. The US anticipates concluding its military operations against Iran within weeks, even as further deployments arrive in the region.

Houthi rebels in Yemen, backed by Iran, launched missile attacks on Israel on Saturday, marking their entry into the ongoing Middle East conflict. The Houthis claimed to target sensitive Israeli military sites, while Israel reported intercepting a missile. This action raises concerns about potential disruptions to global shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait off the Red Sea, a crucial passage for approximately 12% of global trade. The Houthis, controlling much of northern Yemen, are a key part of Iran's "Axis of Resistance," and their involvement could exacerbate the existing tensions and further impact international trade routes. The Israeli military stated they are preparing for a multifront war.

The Houthis in Yemen, backed by Iran, have entered the conflict, raising concerns about potential disruptions to Red Sea shipping. The Houthis control a significant portion of Yemen and possess the capability to target the Bab al-Mandab strait, a crucial waterway. While a ceasefire mediated by Oman had halted Houthi attacks on US shipping since May 2025, attacks on Israel continued. The extent of Houthi involvement, whether limited missile strikes or a full closure of the Red Sea, remains to be seen. The Bab al-Mandab strait has always been vulnerable to Houthi attacks, and major carriers have been slow to resume traffic through the Red Sea.

Amidst a global energy crisis caused by the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, Pakistan is hosting talks in Islamabad with the foreign ministers of Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. The meetings, which began on Sunday, March 29, 2026, aim to de-escalate the conflict. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar is attempting to build a regional bloc, potentially including Indonesia and Malaysia, to encourage diplomacy. This diplomatic push follows a phone call between Dar and his Iranian counterpart, during which the Iranian minister detailed accusations of US-Israeli attacks on Iranian infrastructure. As a confidence-building measure, Iran has agreed to allow Pakistani ships passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt convened in Pakistan on Sunday to discuss ending the month-long conflict in the Middle East between Iran, the US, and Israel. The war, triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has resulted in over 3,000 deaths and threatens global oil supplies due to Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz. The US and Israel are not participating in the Islamabad talks, but the US has reportedly offered Iran a 15-point peace proposal via Pakistan. The meetings aim to establish direct dialogue between the US and Iran, who have primarily communicated through mediators during the conflict, which has been further complicated by the entry of Yemen's Houthi rebels.

Pakistan is hosting top diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt in Islamabad for two-day talks focused on de-escalating the conflict between the US and Iran. The meetings, led by Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, aim to foster dialogue and diplomacy as a solution to the escalating tensions. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who thanked Pakistan for its mediation efforts. Pakistan is acting as a key communicator between the US and Iran, relaying messages in an attempt to find a resolution to the conflict. The talks are considered a critical step towards finding a viable diplomatic solution.

Reports indicate the Pentagon is preparing options for potential ground operations in Iran, including special forces raids or infantry deployments. This comes as the US increases its military presence in the Middle East, with an additional 3,500 troops arriving recently, joining the roughly 50,000 already stationed in the region. Potential objectives for military action could include securing the Strait of Hormuz, seizing Iranian uranium, or targeting oil facilities. Lawmakers are debating the necessity and scope of any potential ground involvement, with Senator Lankford emphasizing the need for clear objectives and a defined exit strategy. The White House stated that the Pentagon's preparations are for optionality and do not indicate a presidential decision has been made.

The Pentagon is reportedly preparing plans for weeks of limited ground operations in Iran, potentially including raids on Kharg Island and coastal sites near the Strait of Hormuz. According to The Washington Post, the plans involve special operations and conventional infantry troops, but fall short of a full-scale invasion. These preparations come as the war in Iran stretches into its fifth week, with the US deploying additional Marines and soldiers to the Middle East, including approximately 3,500 soldiers who recently arrived on the USS Tripoli. Discussions within the administration have considered seizing Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil export hub, and raiding coastal areas to destroy weapons targeting commercial and military shipping. While the Pentagon is preparing options, it remains uncertain whether President Trump will approve any of these plans.

Chinese analysts believe the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, now in its second month, is unlikely to be prolonged despite escalating tensions. The conflict has expanded geographically, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen firing missiles at Israel, one of which was intercepted. The Houthis operate near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping lane for Eurasian trade. Analysts warn that Houthi obstruction of this strait could significantly impact the global economy and potentially cause another increase in oil prices, which have already risen. The Houthi missile attack was reportedly issued as a warning.

Yemen's Houthi rebels launched a barrage of ballistic missiles targeting "sensitive Israeli military sites" in southern Israel on Saturday, marking their first direct strikes since the US-Israeli war on Iran began. Houthi military spokesperson Brigadier-General Yahya Saree announced the attack, stating it would continue until objectives are achieved and aggression against the resistance ceases. The Israeli military reported intercepting one missile, with sirens sounding in Beersheba and near Israel's nuclear research center. The Houthis, who have controlled Yemen's capital since 2014, had previously stayed out of the conflict, though they disrupted Red Sea shipping during the Israel-Hamas war. This attack signals a potential escalation of the broader regional conflict.

The conflict between the US-Israeli alliance and Iran has escalated with the entry of Houthi forces from Yemen, who launched missile attacks on Israeli military sites. This expansion threatens key maritime routes like the Bab al-Mandab strait, potentially amplifying the war's impact on the global economy. While Israel claims to have intercepted one missile, the Houthis vow to continue operations until aggression ceases. A meeting of Middle Eastern powers in Pakistan aims to find a regional solution, but excludes the warring parties. Attacks have also been reported on a Saudi airbase and Kuwait airport, raising concerns about further regional involvement, including potential direct intervention by Saudi Arabia if its Red Sea oil export route is threatened.

The Houthi movement in Yemen, backed by Iran, poses a significant threat to Red Sea shipping lanes. While their missile attacks on Israel have been limited, the Houthis' potential targeting of vessels in the Bab al-Mandab strait could severely disrupt global trade and energy supplies. This action, taken in support of Hamas, risks escalating tensions and further damaging the global economy, especially if coupled with Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz. The Houthis have previously targeted Gulf Arab neighbors and faced retaliatory strikes. Increased Houthi involvement could reignite Yemen's internal conflict and broaden the ongoing regional war. The extent of the Houthis' future actions remains uncertain.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned neighboring countries against allowing "enemies" to use their territory to conduct operations against Iran. This statement follows similar warnings from Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, urging regional states to distance themselves from the United States. The warnings come amidst an ongoing war that began on February 28 with US and Israeli airstrikes across Iran. Recently, Kuwait's international airport was targeted by drone attacks, causing damage to its radar system. Iran has stated it will retaliate strongly if its infrastructure or economic centers are targeted, emphasizing that regional countries should prioritize development and security by not enabling hostile actions from their lands.

On day 28 of the US-Israel war on Iran, March 27, 2026, President Trump delayed attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure until April 6, citing progress in peace talks, despite Iran's description of the US proposal as unfair. Pakistan, Turkiye, and Egypt are mediating to prevent a wider regional conflict. US and Israeli forces continue to bombard Iranian cities, resulting in over 1,900 deaths, while Iran retaliates with missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states. Iran's five demands, including war reparations and control over the Strait of Hormuz, are considered unacceptable by the US. Despite claims of progress, Iran focuses on ongoing attacks, viewing them as evidence of US insincerity, as Israel strikes infrastructure in Tehran.

According to an intelligence source, Saudi Arabia is urging the United States to intensify its attacks on Iran, viewing the current US-Israeli campaign as a crucial opportunity to reshape the Middle East. While not currently involved militarily in the conflict that began in late February, Saudi Arabia is considering direct intervention if peace efforts fail and Iran continues its attacks. Recent Iranian drone strikes, including one targeting an oil refinery in Yanbu on the Red Sea coast, have heightened tensions. Despite possessing a pipeline to transport oil via the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia faces potential threats to its economic lifeline and from Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. Saudi Arabia claims it is calibrating its response and preparing for potential escalation, while maintaining that it has not been pushing for war.

The Houthis in Yemen warned they are prepared to militarily intervene if other countries join the US and Israel in a war against Iran, or if the Red Sea is used to attack Iran. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree stated their "fingers are on the trigger" for direct military intervention under those circumstances. This warning raises concerns about a broader regional conflict, given the Houthis' ability to strike targets and disrupt shipping lanes. The Houthis have controlled much of Yemen since 2014 and have previously targeted vessels in the Red Sea and Israel in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. While a truce was agreed upon in May, this new statement suggests a potential shift in Houthi involvement in the region.

Yemenis fear potential economic consequences as they could be drawn into the conflict between the U.S. and Iran. While Iran's allies, such as Hezbollah, are actively involved, the Iran-allied Houthis in Yemen have not yet engaged. However, the Houthis possess the capability to target shipping in the Red Sea, and an Iranian official suggested they could destabilize the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandeb Strait if the U.S. attacks Iranian oil facilities. Analysts warn that Houthi involvement, such as blockading Bab al-Mandeb, would devastate Yemen economically and humanitarianly, and could reignite Yemen's internal conflict. Abdulsalam Mohammed suggests the Houthis would likely target energy facilities and ports in Gulf countries.

The US and Israel's war on Iran is escalating, with increased strikes reported by Al Jazeera on March 26, 2026. Despite US President Trump's claims of ongoing peace talks, Iran denies negotiations and vows to continue resisting US aggression. Iran retaliated with strikes against Israel and Gulf countries, further destabilizing the Middle East and driving up global energy and food prices. The US has reportedly targeted a significant portion of Iran's missile and drone production facilities. Iran has warned of potential attempts to occupy one of its islands and is considering levying tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could give them leverage in any future negotiations. Civilian casualties have been reported, including the deaths of two teenagers in a US-Israeli strike.

Tensions are escalating between Iran and the US in the Strait of Hormuz region as of March 2026. Despite Iran's denial, the US claims ongoing talks are occurring, but warns of potential strikes if negotiations fail. The US has threatened Iran with significant retaliation if provoked. In Iran, pro-government rallies have taken place in Tehran. Meanwhile, Israel has activated its Iron Dome defense system to intercept missiles launched from Iran towards Tel Aviv. Israeli airstrikes have also been reported in Lebanon.

Oil prices surged, with Brent crude topping $104 a barrel on Thursday, after Iran denied engaging in direct talks with the United States regarding de-escalation of the conflict. The price increase reverses a dip from the previous day when reports suggested a potential peace plan. Asian stock markets also reacted negatively to the news. Iran's denial and the White House's warning of further consequences if Iran doesn't accept defeat have heightened concerns about the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil supply route. Since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, oil prices have risen over 40%, leading to energy conservation measures globally, and analysts predict further increases until the Strait is secure.

On March 25, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is not currently engaged in negotiations with the United States and will not negotiate while under attack. This statement directly contradicts claims made a day prior by U.S. President Trump, who asserted that the U.S. was already in talks with Iranian officials. The Iranian government denies President Trump's claim and maintains its position of refusing dialogue with the U.S. under present circumstances. The location of these alleged talks was not specified in either statement. The reason for Iran's refusal is due to the ongoing perceived aggression from the U.S.

In March 2026, amidst the ongoing war between the US/Israel and Iran, the US, under President Trump, reportedly sent a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran via Pakistan. The plan aims to establish a one-month ceasefire for negotiations to end the conflict, which began in late February and has caused significant casualties, disrupted shipping, and roiled global markets. Iran has consistently denied engaging in talks with the US, dismissing Trump's claims of productive conversations. The war was initiated by the US and Israel while negotiations with Iran were ongoing. Iran's response included closing the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on US assets, leading to soaring oil prices. While reports of the US plan have slightly calmed markets, the possibility of successful negotiations remains uncertain due to the conflicting demands of both sides.

Reports indicate potential US-Iran peace talks, though Iran denies direct negotiations, admitting only to indirect message exchanges. The conflict, ongoing since February 28th, has resulted in thousands of deaths in Iran, according to HRANA. The US and Israel initially hoped for Iran's collapse or capitulation, but the regime's survival has complicated matters. A proposed US 15-point plan demands Iran cease its nuclear and missile programs, and end support for regional militias in exchange for sanctions relief and shared control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran initially rejected the plan as "excessive" but later signaled openness to considering "some ideas," while listing conditions including war reparations. The situation resembles the Russia-Ukraine war stalemate, with both sides desiring an end but on vastly different terms.

Amid ongoing conflict, Iran rejected a US ceasefire proposal, offering its own negotiation plan, though stating it has "no intention of negotiating for now." Despite this, President Trump claimed Iran desires a deal but fears internal and external repercussions. China urged dialogue between the US and Iran, seeing a "glimmer of hope for peace." Israel conducted strikes across Iran, including in Isfahan, targeting Iranian infrastructure. Kuwait arrested six individuals allegedly involved in a Hezbollah plot to assassinate Gulf leaders. The US military reported hitting over 10,000 targets in Iran, claiming significant damage to Iranian naval and missile capabilities.

Iran rejected a US ceasefire proposal for the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and launched further attacks on Israel and Gulf Arab countries, including a strike at Kuwait International Airport on Wednesday. Simultaneously, Israel launched air strikes on Tehran, and the US deployed additional troops to the region. An Iranian official stated that Iran has not engaged in ceasefire talks and has its own demands to end the fighting. The US proposal, transmitted via Pakistan, reportedly included sanctions relief, limitations on Iran's nuclear program and missiles, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal also included restrictions on Iran’s support for armed groups.

Amidst ongoing Middle East tensions, Iran has reportedly dismissed a US proposal for a ceasefire and denied engaging in negotiations, despite claims from the White House that talks are ongoing. Iranian officials stated they have no plans for negotiations. The US, through Pakistan, presented a 15-point proposal to Iran. Meanwhile, other key developments include Israel conducting strikes in Iran, Hezbollah rejecting truce talks, and reports of Russia sending drones to Iran. The UN chief has called for an end to the "out of control" war, while Israel is reportedly expanding its occupation of southern Lebanon. The situation remains volatile, with the US warning of severe consequences if talks fail.

Amidst ongoing conflict initiated by a US-Israeli attack on February 28, 2026, Iran's negotiating position appears to have strengthened. Despite claims from the US and Israel that Iran's military capabilities have been significantly degraded, Iran has demonstrated its ability to retaliate, including attacks on Qatar's gas site and Israeli cities. Indirect communication channels between the US and Iran have been established through Egypt, Turkiye, and Pakistan. Iran now seeks not only a ceasefire but also long-term economic and security guarantees, including payment repatriations, assurances against future attacks, and a new regulatory framework for the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts caution that Iran will likely seek concessions that the US and Gulf nations will be unable to agree to.

Pakistan is attempting to mediate peace talks between the US and Iran to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has offered Islamabad as a venue for negotiations, potentially as early as this week. Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, discussed the conflict with Donald Trump, and Sharif spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian about de-escalation. While Pakistan has expressed its readiness to host talks, neither the US nor Iran has formally agreed, and Iran has dismissed reports of talks as "fake news." Iran has indicated a preference for Islamabad as a venue but has expressed distrust in Washington and rejected Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner as potential US negotiators.

Pakistan has offered to host talks between the United States and Iran, following reports of mediation efforts by Pakistan, Turkiye, and Egypt. This offer comes amid conflicting claims, with US President Donald Trump asserting ongoing negotiations while Iran denies any such talks. Pakistan's Foreign Ministry and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have publicly stated their willingness to facilitate discussions in Islamabad. Reports suggest potential meeting formats involving high-level officials from both countries. These efforts follow recent communications between Pakistani and Iranian leaders, as well as discussions between the Pakistani army chief and President Trump, aiming to de-escalate tensions and address the ongoing conflict.

Reports suggest that backchannel talks between the United States and Iran are unlikely to produce a peace deal, with Chinese analysts citing unmet core conditions for a ceasefire. Conflicting accounts exist regarding the talks, with Iran dismissing reports of discussions with former Trump aide Steve Witkoff as false. Several countries, including Oman, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, are reportedly attempting to mediate a ceasefire between the US and Iran. Pakistan is considered a potential location for direct talks, though the White House has not confirmed US participation, describing the situation as fluid. The reasons behind the unlikelihood of a peace deal are the unmet core conditions for a ceasefire.

Amidst ongoing US and Israeli air raids and Iranian retaliatory attacks, the possibility of talks between the US and Iran to end the conflict has emerged. While some Iranian officials deny any negotiations, the US claims discussions are underway. The BBC reports on the divided opinions within Iran regarding these potential talks. Government supporters and officials largely echo the sentiment against negotiating with the US. However, other Iranians, while desiring an end to the war, are wary of a deal that would preserve the current Islamic government's power. They fear the regime, even weakened, would maintain control over the population. The situation is further complicated by government-imposed internet outages, limiting access to information for ordinary citizens.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump claimed that the US and Iran were engaged in productive negotiations to end the war that began with Israel a month prior. However, Iranian officials have denied that any such talks have taken place. Trump's announcement coincided with the start of the US trading week, leading to speculation that his claims were intended to calm financial markets amidst fluctuating oil prices. An Iranian parliamentary speaker refuted Trump's claims, accusing the US of spreading "fakenews" to manipulate markets and escape their current predicament. Iran's strategy appears to be to inflict economic pain on the US as a deterrent against future attacks.

On March 24, 2026, Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting Israel and Gulf Arab states. This occurred despite US President Donald Trump's claim that the US was in talks with Iran to end the ongoing conflict. Trump also delayed a deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, averting potential strikes on Iranian power stations. However, Iran denied Trump's claims of negotiations, with parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf dismissing them as "fakenews" intended to manipulate financial markets. The strikes and conflicting reports highlight the continued tensions and uncertainty surrounding the conflict.

Pakistan faces a delicate balancing act as tensions escalate between Iran and its allies. Islamabad is attempting to mediate between the U.S. and Iran, with potential talks being held in Pakistan. However, a new defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, committing Pakistan to Riyadh's defense, complicates its relationship with Tehran. Pakistan and Iran share a 565-mile border, deep trade ties, and significant religious connections, including Pakistan's large Shiite population. Recent Iranian strikes prompted an emergency visit by Pakistan's army chief to Saudi Arabia to discuss joint responses, testing the new defense pact. Maintaining ties with both Saudi Arabia and Iran is crucial for Pakistan's economic and strategic interests.

Donald Trump extended a deadline regarding Iran by five days, claiming productive talks between the US and Iran had occurred. Trump suggested a potential deal to end the conflict was possible. However, Iran denied these claims, stating no talks with the US have taken place since the recent bombing campaign. The extension followed heightened tensions, including threats from both sides regarding shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and potential retaliatory attacks. Several countries, including Oman, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, are reportedly involved in efforts to mediate. Despite Trump's claims, violence continues across the Middle East.

Following claims by US President Donald Trump of "productive" talks with Iran to end the ongoing war, senior Iranian officials have denied that any such discussions have taken place. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that the claim is "fakenews" used to manipulate markets and help the US and Israel escape their current predicament. This denial was echoed by Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, who acknowledged receiving messages from friendly countries about US requests for negotiations. The denials come as the US-Israeli war on Iran enters its fourth week, with continued attacks and rising global energy prices due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump had previously threatened to attack Iranian power plants but postponed strikes for five days pending the supposed talks.