ISLAMABAD/WASHINGTON/TEHRAN: A second round of talks between the United States and Iran could take place as early as Friday, according to remarks attributed to US President Donald Trump, as diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan continue to gain traction.
Citing a report, Trump indicated that renewed negotiations—potentially in Islamabad—remain under consideration, though no firm schedule has been officially confirmed. A source familiar with the matter said no specific timeline has been finalized for the continuation of the ceasefire.
The development follows Washington’s decision to extend a two-week truce just as it was nearing expiry. Trump said the extension was granted at Pakistan’s request to allow time for further diplomatic engagement and the formulation of a unified proposal by Tehran.
Despite the extension, key disagreements persist. Iran has linked its participation in further talks to the lifting of a US naval blockade, which it views as a violation of the ceasefire. The blockade and restrictions on maritime trade remain central points of contention, along with the status of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
The conflict, which escalated after US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, saw Tehran respond by closing the strait and launching attacks on regional targets. A temporary ceasefire was announced on April 8 by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with Pakistan offering to mediate peace talks.
Although the first round of negotiations in Islamabad ended without a breakthrough, it avoided collapse, prompting continued diplomatic efforts by Islamabad to bring both sides back to the table.
Pakistani Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said authorities remain in close contact with Iranian leadership, though formal confirmation of Tehran’s participation in the next round of talks is still awaited.
Meanwhile, Iran has acknowledged Pakistan’s role in attempting to de-escalate tensions. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei expressed appreciation for Islamabad’s mediation efforts, while emphasizing that Tehran continues to take necessary steps to safeguard its national interests and security.
As uncertainty lingers over the next phase of negotiations, Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement remains central to efforts aimed at sustaining the ceasefire and advancing dialogue between the two sides.