US and Iranian media have reported that peace talks between the two sides have begun in Islamabad, as Pakistan tries to help broker an agreement to reduce tensions. The reported discussions come amid a wider diplomatic push involving several countries affected by the conflict and its impact on shipping in the region.
At the same time, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel remains committed to fighting Iran. The remarks underline how the conflict continues even as diplomatic efforts gather pace in the Pakistani capital.
Talks in Islamabad
According to the reports, the Islamabad talks are being held under conditions described as conditional peace discussions. The development follows days of heightened tension and continued concern over the broader conflict.
Pakistan has been working to position itself as a broker in the effort to reach a settlement. The talks are taking place against a backdrop of disruption that has affected not only regional security but also global trade routes.
Strait of Hormuz shipping concerns
US officials have claimed that Iran is unable to find mines it laid in the Strait of Hormuz. Separately, Trump said the United States has begun clearing mines in the waterway. The strait has been blockaded by Iran since the beginning of the war, causing heavy damage to the global economy.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important shipping lanes, and the continued blockage has raised concerns about the movement of ships and the cost of transporting goods and energy supplies.
UK to host meeting next week
The UK will host a meeting on the Strait of Hormuz next week, with multiple countries set to attend. The aim is to restore the free movement of ships through the waterway and address the disruption caused by the blockade.
A British official told the Associated Press that the meeting will oppose any proposal to charge tolls for passage through the strait. Iran has reportedly suggested such tolls as part of ceasefire negotiations.
The diplomatic efforts reflect growing pressure on all sides to reduce tensions and reopen the waterway, even as the conflict continues and political leaders signal that they are not yet ready to stand down.
