Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Apr 15: Donald Trump has indicated that a second round of direct talks between the United States and Iran could take place “within the next two days,” raising the prospect of renewed diplomacy even as military pressure in the Gulf continues to mount.
In an interview with The New York Post, Trump suggested that negotiations may soon resume and identified Islamabad as a expected venue. He noted that earlier discussions had considered Europe before shifting focus toward Pakistan.
The remarks follow an initial round of talks that failed to produce a breakthrough, leaving key issues unresolved. Despite the diplomatic overture, tensions remain high as the US continues enforcing a naval blockade targeting shipping linked to Iran.
According to the United States Central Command, no vessels departing Iranian ports successfully passed through the blockade during its first 24 hours. At least six merchant ships reportedly complied with US directives and turned back toward ports in the Gulf of Oman.
However, maritime tracking data paints a more nuanced picture. Some Iran-linked vessels were observed navigating the Strait of Hormuz after the blockade began, with a few altering course or pausing after entering open waters. Meanwhile, over 20 unrelated commercial ships, including oil tankers and cargo carriers, continued to transit the strait, indicating that traffic has not been entirely halted.
US Vice President JD Vance stated during a visit to Georgia that Washington is pursuing a broader agreement with Tehran — one that would allow Iran economic growth in exchange for a firm commitment to abandon nuclear weapons development.
Diplomatic efforts are also unfolding elsewhere in the region. Israel and Lebanon have agreed to initiate direct negotiations following rare face-to-face discussions in Washington, seen as part of broader attempts to stabilise regional tensions linked to the Iran situation.
The United Nations has called for sustained engagement. Secretary-General António Guterres expressed optimism that talks between Washington and Tehran would resume, urging continued diplomatic efforts.
Financial markets reacted swiftly to signs of a possible thaw. US crude oil prices dropped nearly 8 per cent to their lowest levels in weeks, reflecting expectations that easing tensions could stabilise global energy supplies.
Nevertheless, uncertainty persists around the blockade and its long-term implications. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint, carrying a substantial portion of the world’s oil shipments, and any prolonged disruption could have far-reaching consequences for global energy security.
The current standoff underscores decades of strained relations between the US and Iran, largely driven by disputes over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and regional influence. Previous diplomatic efforts have repeatedly faltered, leaving the situation volatile and highly sensitive to further escalation.