The United States and Iran may return to the negotiating table as early as this week
A new round is being discussed in Pakistan, though the location could still change.
Previous talks ended without results. The main deadlock is Iran’s nuclear program.
According to media reports, the U.S. proposed freezing uranium enrichment for 20 years, while Iran is said to insist on around 5 years. This has not been officially confirmed.
The ceasefire established for the duration of the talks expires on April 21. It may be extended to keep negotiations from collapsing.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has already called reports about the talks “fake” and claims that Iran has been weakened by the recent operation.
Saudi Arabia is urging the United States to stop the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and return to negotiations with Iran.
Riyadh fears that Iran could pressure the Houthis in Yemen to block another key route — the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
China meanwhile has ignored the U.S. blockade of Iran
A Chinese tanker passed through the Strait of Hormuz.
The vessel Rich Starry, which is under sanctions for ties to Iran, was the first to enter the strait and exit the Persian Gulf after Trump’s statements.
It is carrying about 250,000 barrels of methanol.
