Peace talks between US and Iranian representatives are reportedly under way in Islamabad, according to US and Iranian media, as Pakistan works to broker a possible deal. The discussions come amid continuing tensions in the region, with Israel saying it remains committed to fighting Iran.
At the same time, US officials have claimed that Iran is unable to find the mines it laid in the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway has been blocked since the start of the war, causing major disruption to global trade and heavy damage to the world economy.
UK to host Strait of Hormuz meeting
The UK is set to host a meeting on the Strait of Hormuz next week, bringing together multiple countries in an effort to restore the free movement of ships through the passage. According to the report, the gathering will focus on reopening the route and reducing the impact of the blockade on international shipping.
A British official told the Associated Press that the meeting will reject Iran’s proposal to charge tolls for passage through the waterway. That idea has been raised by Iran as part of ceasefire negotiations.
The latest developments suggest a widening diplomatic push around the conflict, with talks in Islamabad, pressure over the Strait of Hormuz, and plans for a broader international meeting all taking place at the same time.
Israel, meanwhile, says it remains committed to continuing its fight against Iran, underscoring how far the sides remain from any clear resolution.
The talks and the planned meeting come as governments and shipping interests look for ways to ease the strain on global commerce. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important chokepoints, and any disruption there has immediate consequences far beyond the region.
