Pakistan sets modest goal for US-Iran summit: A deal to keep talks going

Pakistan is hosting US-Iran talks in Islamabad on April 10, 2026, aiming to facilitate continued dialogue between the two nations amidst deep divisions. The talks follow a Pakistan-mediated ceasefire after the US and Israel launched a war on Iran. High-level delegations, including US Vice President JD Vance and expected Iranian representatives Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, will participate. Due to persistent differences, Pakistan has set a modest goal: to secure an agreement for the US and Iran to continue negotiations toward a lasting peace deal. The talks will be held in a "proximity format," with the US and Iranian teams in separate rooms, mediated by Pakistan.

Islamabad is preparing to host negotiations between the US and Iran. However, the ceasefire is strained as Donald Trump accuses Iran of violating promises regarding the Strait of Hormuz, claiming they are not allowing oil to pass through as agreed. Simultaneously, Israel attacked Lebanon, which Iran claims violates the truce. In other news, Melania Trump made a surprise address denying ties to Jeffrey Epstein and urged Congress to give Epstein survivors a public hearing. Her speech has created confusion regarding its timing and purpose, particularly given her husband's desire to move on from the subject.

In April 2026, Vice President JD Vance is traveling to Pakistan to lead talks with Iran. This mission, initiated by President Trump, aims to find a resolution to the war that began six weeks prior. The ceasefire between the warring nations is currently unstable. Vance, who has been a reluctant defender of the conflict, is now tasked with preventing further escalation, particularly in light of President Trump's recent threats. The talks are intended to stabilize the region and potentially bring an end to the ongoing conflict.

European airports are warning of potential jet fuel shortages within three weeks if the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, remains effectively closed. ACI Europe alerted the EU transport commissioner that systemic shortages could disrupt summer travel due to soaring jet fuel prices, which have more than doubled since last year. The crisis stems from increased tensions in the Middle East, particularly after Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz, impacting European access to Gulf refineries, which typically supply over 60% of its jet fuel. The UK is considered particularly vulnerable due to its reliance on Kuwait. European buyers are now competing with Asia for alternative fuel sources, exacerbating the global market's exposure.

Following a ceasefire in April 2026 between the US, Israel, and Iran, experts predict it will take months for energy prices to normalize. Iran's actions, including blocking the Strait of Hormuz (a crucial passage for global oil and gas exports) and attacking Gulf energy infrastructure, caused significant disruptions. This led to soaring prices for energy and related products, impacting consumers worldwide, especially in Asia and Africa. The Strait of Hormuz, which previously saw 120-140 ships daily, now has drastically reduced traffic. Analysts emphasize that a consistent and predictable flow of cargo through the strait is necessary for market stabilization, but the timeline for achieving this remains uncertain.

The six Gulf Arab monarchies are apprehensive about ongoing US-Iran negotiations in Pakistan, fearing that any resulting peace agreement could compromise their security and economic diversification efforts. This concern stems from past attacks by Iranian drones and missiles, coupled with the recent failure of their UN Security Council bid to secure defensive measures for the Strait of Hormuz due to vetoes from China and Russia. Gulf states feel sidelined in the negotiations, relying on information from Washington and Islamabad. Officials and commentators in the UAE and Kuwait have voiced concerns about being excluded from the process, fearing the potential consequences for their long-term stability and economic goals.

Following a US-Israel war on Iran, Gulf states are reassessing their security strategies due to an emboldened Iran and battered economies. Gulf nations aim to diversify security partnerships, potentially including countries like Turkey and Pakistan, moving away from sole reliance on the US. A key point of contention remains Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade route, which will be a focus in upcoming US-Iran talks. Despite successfully intercepting many Iranian missiles during the conflict, Gulf states are divided on future relations with Iran, ranging from hawkish stances to hopes for renewed ties. Saudi Arabia and Iran have initiated contact to de-escalate tensions, highlighting the need to insulate the region from perpetual conflict and rebuild economic foundations.

A two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, mediated by Pakistan, has temporarily eased tensions and reopened the Strait of Hormuz. While global markets have reacted positively, the agreement's strategic significance lies in the uncertainty it creates regarding a lasting resolution. The ceasefire is time-limited and tied to ongoing negotiations, suggesting a period of managed instability rather than a durable peace. For Asia, this translates to continued economic risks related to freight costs, insurance, fuel prices, and inflation. The conflict's evolution, from initial rupture to direct confrontation and weaponization of the Strait, now enters a post-war phase centered on the US and the future of the Hormuz order, impacting Asian economies.

Following a US-Israeli war on Iran that began in February 2026, Iran retaliated by halting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil and LNG transport. A ceasefire brokered by Pakistan led to Iran issuing official terms for controlling the Strait going forward. As part of the truce, Iran is now taxing ships passing through the Strait, granting safe passage only to friendly nations or those paying tolls, some in Chinese yuan. The US has not acknowledged the terms, but analysts expect pushback from Washington and other countries. Talks are scheduled to begin in Islamabad to negotiate a permanent end to hostilities.

A US-Israeli war on Iran has led to a shift away from precision strikes, with both sides increasingly targeting energy and civilian infrastructure. Initial attacks on Iran's South Pars gas field prompted retaliatory attacks on energy infrastructure across the Gulf. Civilian targets in Iran, such as a pharmaceutical company, a medical research center, and a major bridge, have been destroyed. The escalation occurred before a two-week ceasefire was agreed upon, mediated by Pakistan, with negotiations for a peace deal scheduled to begin. Prior to the ceasefire, the US President threatened further destruction of Iranian civilian facilities if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened.

Petrol and diesel prices have risen again due to concerns about the US-Iran ceasefire's stability. Initial drops in oil prices after the ceasefire announcement were reversed on Thursday amid doubts fueled by Israeli strikes on Lebanon and Iranian warnings. The Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route, remains a point of contention, further impacting prices. Brent crude rose 3.2% to $97.94 a barrel, reflecting market anxiety. Since the war began on February 28th, wholesale oil prices have increased by 35%, leading to higher costs at the pump, with average petrol prices at 158.03p a litre and diesel at 191.11p on Thursday in the UK. While one motoring group anticipates price drops if the ceasefire holds, another warns against expecting significant reductions soon.

New accounts on the prediction market Polymarket profited significantly from well-timed bets on a US-Iran ceasefire on Tuesday. These new users placed substantial "yes" bets shortly before Donald Trump announced the ceasefire, despite his earlier escalating rhetoric and lack of clear signals of a deal. Analysis of blockchain data revealed at least 50 newly created wallets made these profitable bets, with some earning hundreds of thousands of dollars. One user, for example, invested $72,000 and cashed out for $200,000 in profit. While some users received payouts, Polymarket has labeled the ceasefire contract as "disputed" due to ongoing restrictions and attacks, potentially delaying payouts for others. The identity of the individuals behind these new wallets remains unknown, as Polymarket uses proxy smart contract wallets.

Donald Trump stated that US forces will remain stationed around Iran until a "REAL AGREEMENT" is fully implemented, threatening military action if Iran fails to meet US demands. This statement casts doubt on a recently brokered ceasefire between Washington and Tehran, which paused weeks of fighting and calmed global markets concerned about disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump reiterated demands that Iran abandon nuclear ambitions and ensure safe passage through the shipping lane. Iranian news agencies published a chart suggesting the IRGC had placed sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz during the war, raising further concerns. Scepticism regarding the ceasefire remains high within Iran.

Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that the U.S. military presence would remain near Iran until it fully complies with a previously reached agreement. He threatened renewed military action if Iran fails to adhere to the terms. This warning comes amid escalating tensions, with Iran deeming further peace talks with the U.S. "unreasonable" following Israeli strikes on Lebanon. Disagreement persists regarding Iran's nuclear program, with Trump claiming Iran agreed to halt uranium enrichment, while Iranian parliament speaker Mohammed Bager Qalibaf stated that enrichment is permitted under the ceasefire terms. Trump also asserted that Iran agreed to no nuclear weapons and to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and safe.

US Vice President JD Vance stated that it would be unwise for Iran to allow the US ceasefire to collapse over Lebanon, despite Iran's belief that Lebanon was included in the agreement. Pakistan, who mediated the truce, explicitly stated Lebanon was included, but the US denies this. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that the US must choose between a ceasefire and continued conflict via Israel's actions in Lebanon. Vance dismissed the conflicting positions as a "misunderstanding," suggesting Iran mistakenly believed the ceasefire encompassed Lebanon. The US has not clarified why Pakistan's statement highlighted Lebanon as part of the truce. Vance made these statements while leaving Hungary on Wednesday.

Pakistan played a crucial role in brokering a ceasefire between the US/Israel and Iran after escalating tensions threatened to engulf the region. Prime Minister Sharif expressed pessimism about peace prospects before the agreement. Army Chief Asim Munir leveraged his relationships with both the US and Iran to mediate. The situation was critical for Pakistan due to its economic vulnerabilities, defense pact with Saudi Arabia, and internal security concerns. While the US claimed Iran initiated the ceasefire request, Pakistani officials suggest both sides desired an end to the conflict. Pakistan viewed the successful mediation as a significant diplomatic achievement, averting a potentially disastrous regional war.

Following a US announcement of a two-week suspension of bombing campaigns against Iran to allow for ceasefire talks, Iran stated it hopes China and other nations can guarantee regional security and prevent the US from resuming hostilities. Iranian ambassador Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, speaking in Beijing, expressed Iran's desire for the UN Security Council, China, Russia, Pakistan, and Turkey to collectively ensure peace. Fazli also warned of a strong Iranian response if the US violates the ceasefire. President Trump suggested China played a significant role in bringing Iran to the negotiating table. Fazli confirmed Iran's close dialogue and cooperation with friendly countries, particularly China.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared a "decisive military victory" over Iran, claiming the destruction of its navy, air defense, and missile production capabilities following "Operation Epic Fury." Hegseth stated that Iran's missile program was functionally destroyed and that the ceasefire agreement ensures Iran will never possess nuclear weapons. These claims of victory follow a two-week ceasefire after heightened tensions that nearly resulted in a full-scale US assault. Despite Hegseth's claims, he acknowledged Iran's ability to still engage in limited attacks. The US military remains in the Middle East to monitor Iran's compliance with the ceasefire and its enriched uranium stockpile. The article also notes that Tehran is hailing its own "historic" win.

Following a 40-day war, the US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire brokered by Pakistan. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed Iran "begged" for the ceasefire after "Operation Epic Fury" decimated its military and defense industry. President Trump announced the pause after intervention from Pakistani leaders, while Iran also confirmed acceptance and declared victory, stating its war objectives were achieved. The conflict, which began on February 28th with US and Israeli strikes, resulted in over 5,000 deaths, including 13 US service members and over 1,600 Iranian civilians. The US threatened further strikes on Iranian infrastructure if Tehran hadn't agreed to the ceasefire. Formal talks between Iran and Pakistan are scheduled to begin Friday in Islamabad.

Shortly after the US and Iran announced a two-week ceasefire, the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain reported missile and drone attacks. The UAE stated its air defenses were actively intercepting incoming missiles and drones originating from Iran. Kuwait reported its army intercepted Iranian drones targeting vital oil facilities, power stations, and water desalination plants, resulting in infrastructure damage. Bahrain's Ministry of Interior reported injuries and property damage from shrapnel due to intercepted Iranian drones. The attacks occurred hours after the ceasefire announcement, raising questions about the stability of the agreement.

Following a ceasefire announcement mediated by Pakistan, a sense of relief mixed with skepticism has settled over Tehran on April 8, 2026, after weeks of bombardment by the US and Israel. While some normalcy returns to the city, with increased traffic and resumed flights in Israel, concerns remain about the ceasefire's durability. Negotiations for a lasting agreement are scheduled to begin in Islamabad on Friday. However, attacks on Iranian oil facilities and retaliatory strikes by Iran against Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain have occurred after the ceasefire was announced. Despite the ongoing tensions, all parties involved are claiming victory, but Iran has stated it is ready to resume military operations if attacked again.

In early April 2026, a two-week ceasefire was reached between the United States and Iran, mediated by Pakistan, averting a potentially larger conflict. The agreement came after weeks of escalating tensions, including threats from US President Trump to obliterate Iranian infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened by his deadline. Trump's rhetoric, including a threat to bomb Iran back to the "Stone Ages," caused international alarm and market instability. The ceasefire, announced less than 90 minutes before Trump's deadline, involves both sides halting attacks and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations for a permanent settlement are scheduled to resume in Islamabad. Israel also agreed to halt its attacks but said Lebanon was not included in the deal.

In the hours before President Trump's deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's UN ambassador, Amir-Saeid Iravani, criticized Trump's Truth Social post as "deeply irresponsible" and "profoundly alarming." Trump's post threatened strikes against Iranian power plants and bridges if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened by 8 p.m. ET. Iravani stated at the UN headquarters that Trump was threatening to destroy civilian infrastructure and commit crimes against humanity. The White House responded by citing Iran's human rights abuses and regional actions, reiterating that Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons. The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global energy supply.

The United States and Iran are nearing a potential escalation as a deadline set by President Trump for Iran to accept a peace agreement approaches. Trump threatened severe consequences, including the destruction of Iranian civilization, if Tehran does not comply by 8 PM EST. The US has reportedly continued operations targeting Iranian military sites, including Kharg Island, a major oil hub. Vice-President Vance indicated that the US possesses unused options and expects further negotiation. Pakistan has renewed mediation efforts amidst heightened tensions.

Amidst escalating US and Israeli attacks on Tehran and a looming deadline set by President Trump to open the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has proposed a 10-point peace plan to end the war. The plan, conveyed through Pakistan, calls for a permanent end to hostilities, safe passage through the Strait, lifting of sanctions, and reconstruction. While details of the 10 clauses remain unpublished, the conflict has spread to the Gulf region and Lebanon. Trump acknowledged the proposal as a "significant step" but deemed it "not good enough." The US president had threatened to target Iranian infrastructure until Tehran agreed to end the war and open the Strait, a crucial passage for global oil and gas supplies.

Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Tuesday aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. The vote, which followed a US-led effort to address Iran's closure of the strait, was 11-2, with Pakistan and Colombia abstaining. The resolution's failure occurred despite being weakened to encourage abstention from Russia and China. Bahrain's foreign minister expressed disappointment, stating the veto sends a negative message regarding the international community's response to threats against international waterways. The vote took place shortly after President Trump issued a strong warning to Iran, demanding the waterway be opened.

Russia and China vetoed a UN Security Council resolution on Tuesday intended to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The vote, held at the UN, was 11-2 with two abstentions. The resolution had been weakened in an attempt to gain Russian and Chinese support. The vote occurred hours before a deadline set by the U.S. President for Iran to open the waterway or face attacks. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical passage for approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply, and its closure has caused energy prices to increase. The Bahrain foreign minister expressed disappointment, stating the failed resolution signals that threats to international waterways can go unchecked.

US President Donald Trump announced a two-week suspension of bombing in Iran, describing it as a "double-sided ceasefire" mediated by Pakistan to allow for diplomacy. The suspension is conditional on Iran ensuring the immediate and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated the US received a 10-point proposal from Iran, believing it could be a basis for negotiation. Iran's Foreign Minister confirmed that if attacks against Iran cease, their forces will halt defensive operations, ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for two weeks. Negotiations between the US and Iran are scheduled to begin on April 10 in Islamabad.

In a press conference on April 7, 2026, regarding the US involvement in the Iran war, President Donald Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth invoked religious themes. Trump stated his belief that God supports the United States' actions in the conflict. Hegseth drew a parallel between the rescue of a downed US airman and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The press conference focused on the US's role in the Iran war and included religious justifications for their involvement. The comments were made during a news conference.

On April 6, 2026, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that the United States would conduct the "largest volume of strikes" on Iran since the beginning of the US-Israeli war. Hegseth indicated these strikes were in response to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran. He warned that the strikes could intensify further if Iran does not reopen the Strait. The US action appears to be aimed at compelling Iran to reopen the strategically important waterway. The location of the strikes was not specified in the report.

Mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey have proposed an immediate ceasefire to the US and Iran to halt the ongoing five-week war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This follows Donald Trump's threat to bomb Iranian power plants if Iran doesn't open the strait by Tuesday. Iran has rejected opening the strait as part of a temporary ceasefire and stated that negotiations are incompatible with ultimatums. Ceasefire discussions involve Pakistani and US officials, as well as Trump's envoy and Iran's foreign minister. Israel, preparing for all scenarios, has claimed responsibility for recent explosions at Iranian petrochemical complexes, stating they are ready to escalate bombings if necessary.

Donald Trump has warned that Iran's proposal to end the ongoing war is insufficient to prevent US action if Tehran fails to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump's Tuesday deadline for a deal remains firm, with the US president threatening infrastructure strikes if free passage through the Strait is not guaranteed. The conflict began on February 28 with US-Israeli attacks on Iran, who responded with missile strikes. Pakistan proposed a 45-day ceasefire, but Iran reportedly rejected it, instead offering a 10-clause proposal for a permanent resolution, including safe passage through the Strait, lifting sanctions, and regional reconstruction. Trump acknowledged the Iranian proposal as a "significant step" but maintained it was "not good enough."

President Trump has threatened military action against Iran if it fails to meet his deadline of Tuesday at 8:00 PM EDT to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking at the White House, Trump stated that the U.S. could "take out" Iran "in one night," targeting its energy and transportation infrastructure, and send the country "back to the Stone Ages" if the deadline is missed. While Iran has rejected previous ceasefire proposals and called for sanctions relief, Trump expressed optimism that negotiations were progressing in good faith. However, a regional official indicated that communication blackouts and delayed responses from Iranian officials are complicating negotiations. The threat comes after the U.S. successfully rescued crew members from a downed fighter jet in southern Iran.

President Trump touted a successful US rescue operation of an American pilot and weapons officer from a downed F-15 in Iran. He simultaneously warned that the US could strike Iran's infrastructure if negotiations fail by his Tuesday deadline. Trump stated the entire country of Iran could be "taken out in a night" if his demands are not met. This comes as Pakistan proposed a ceasefire to allow for talks, which Iran rejected, threatening further retaliation. The US is also investigating a leak regarding a reported US serviceman casualty during the operation.

Pakistan has proposed a peace plan to de-escalate tensions between the US and Iran, brokered through contacts between Pakistani army chief Asim Munir, US officials, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The plan calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, followed by negotiations for a broader settlement within 15 to 20 days. This mediation effort comes as former President Trump issued a Tuesday deadline for a deal to allow traffic to resume through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies. However, Iran has rejected the deadline and has not immediately agreed to reopen the strait, seeking guarantees of a permanent ceasefire. Neither Washington nor Tehran has formally responded to the Pakistani proposal.

Pakistan has proposed a two-stage plan, dubbed the "Islamabad Accord," to end the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran, with both sides considering the framework. The proposal involves an immediate ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, followed by 15-20 days to finalize a broader settlement. This settlement would include a regional framework for the Strait, Iranian commitments regarding nuclear weapons in exchange for sanctions relief and the release of frozen assets, with final talks in Islamabad. Pakistan's army chief has been in contact with US and Iranian officials to facilitate the agreement. However, Iran has stated it will not reopen the Strait of Hormuz as part of a temporary ceasefire.

On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, President Donald Trump addressed the nation from the White House regarding the ongoing war in Iran. He assured Americans that military objectives would be completed "shortly" and requested more time from a skeptical public. Trump's speech aimed to calm jittery markets amid rising oil prices and falling Asian stocks, although he vowed continued pressure on Iran. While dialing back recent aggressive rhetoric, he offered no specifics on negotiations that could lead to a resolution, only promising to "finish the job." The address comes as Iran continues to inflict damage on Gulf neighbors and U.S. bases.

In a primetime address on April 1, 2026, President Trump addressed the nation regarding the ongoing war with Iran. The speech, delivered from Washington D.C., reiterated familiar points about the necessity and eventual success of the war. Trump stated the U.S. was "getting very close" to achieving its goals, without providing specifics on ending the conflict or potential deals with Iran. Analysts noted the speech contained no new information or strategic details, essentially summarizing Trump's previous statements. The address was viewed as an opportunity for Trump to reinforce his position on the war to the American public, despite lacking any significant announcements or policy shifts.

In a televised address from the White House, US President Donald Trump addressed the nation regarding the conflict with Iran. He stated the conflict was "nearing completion" and reassured Americans that the Strait of Hormuz closure was not a concern. Trump announced the US would target Iran "extremely hard" in the coming weeks, aiming to significantly weaken the country. The speech occurred on Wednesday, but Trump did not specify an end date for operations. The address aimed to reassure Americans amidst ongoing war concerns, but the article title suggests it may have had the opposite effect, causing crude oil prices to surge.

In a primetime address, President Trump declared the month-long US war on Iran a success "nearing completion," despite ongoing conflict and global economic disruption. He claimed the US had achieved its military objectives and would end Iran's threat within weeks, citing the decimation of Iran's navy and air force. Trump acknowledged rising gas prices due to the conflict but blamed Iran and reiterated calls for countries to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively closed. Despite his claims, the war continues with thousands of deaths and ongoing attacks between Iran, Israel, and other Middle Eastern countries. Discussions are reportedly ongoing, but the US plans to continue hitting Iran "extremely hard" for several weeks.

In a televised address, President Trump addressed the nation regarding the ongoing US-Israeli military operation against Iran, stating that the "core strategic objectives" were nearing completion after a month of war and projecting it would last a few more weeks. He defended the war as an "investment" despite polls showing disapproval among voters. However, Trump's speech left key questions unanswered, including whether Israel agrees with the proposed timeline and the status of the previously proposed 15-point peace plan. The speech lacked clarity on critical issues such as the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping channel closed by Iran. The address offered little insight into the war's future direction or potential exit strategies for the US.

On Wednesday, [monthFull] [day], [year], President Donald Trump will address the nation from the White House regarding the ongoing war against Iran. This comes as he approaches the 60-day mark requiring Congressional approval for continued military operations under the War Powers Act. The speech is a pivotal moment to outline his next steps in the conflict, which began on February 28th with the stated goals of preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, diminishing its missile capabilities, and crippling its navy. The address will address whether he will declare victory or signal a potential ground invasion, despite mixed messages about the war's goals and duration. The world is watching to see if the U.S. is preparing for a potentially lengthy war in the Middle East.