Peace talks involving US and Iranian officials are continuing in Islamabad, according to reports in both countries’ media, as Pakistan tries to position itself as a broker in efforts to reach a deal. The discussions come as regional tensions remain high and key international players prepare for further diplomacy in the days ahead.
The talks were reported alongside remarks from Donald Trump claiming the US has begun clearing mines in the Strait of Hormuz. US officials also said Iran has been unable to locate the mines it laid in the waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz has become a central issue in the wider crisis. Iran has blockaded the route since the beginning of the war, causing serious disruption to global shipping and inflicting heavy damage on the world economy. The pressure on international trade has raised urgent questions about how quickly sea traffic can be restored.
UK to host meeting on shipping access
The UK is due to host a meeting next week focused on the Strait of Hormuz, bringing together multiple countries that want to restore free movement of ships through the passage. The gathering is expected to address the practical and political steps needed to reopen the waterway.
A British official told the Associated Press that the meeting will oppose any plan for tolls to be charged on ships using the strait. That idea has been put forward by Iran as part of ceasefire negotiations, but the UK and other participants are expected to reject it.
Pakistan seeks a diplomatic role
Pakistan’s involvement adds another layer to the effort to reduce tensions. Officials in Islamabad are hosting the US-Iran discussions, with the aim of helping to move the parties toward an agreement. The talks are being closely watched because of their possible impact on the regional conflict and on shipping routes far beyond the Middle East.
At the same time, the diplomatic track remains uncertain. Reports suggest the discussions are ongoing, but there has been no public indication that a breakthrough has been reached.
Netanyahu says Israel will keep fighting
While peace efforts continue elsewhere, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel remains committed to fighting Iran. His comments underline how far apart the main parties still are, even as international mediators look for ways to prevent the crisis from widening further.
The situation reflects a sharp split between active diplomatic efforts and continued military and political confrontation. On one side are talks in Islamabad and the planned meeting in the UK; on the other, statements suggesting the conflict is still very much unresolved.
With the Strait of Hormuz still blocked and regional powers working through competing proposals, the coming days may prove crucial. The outcome of the Islamabad talks, together with the London meeting next week, could help shape whether shipping through one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints begins to resume.
