A second round of high-stakes talks between the United States and Iran could take place within days, as diplomatic efforts intensify to prevent the collapse of a fragile ceasefire following inconclusive negotiations in Pakistan.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, officials familiar with the matter say a second round of negotiations between Washington and Tehran may be held within days.
Despite strong public rhetoric from both sides, the report noted that the doors of diplomacy remain open.
The report highlighted that regional countries are actively working to bring the US and Iran back to the negotiating table. Their primary goal is to contain tensions and prevent further escalation in the Middle East following the recent conflict.
Pakistan continues mediation efforts
Pakistan, which hosted the first round of talks in Islamabad, remains deeply engaged in diplomatic efforts.
Officials said Pakistani authorities are in active consultation with both Washington and Tehran to revive negotiations before the ceasefire expires.
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A senior Pakistani source was quoted as saying the aim is to “wrap it up before the deadline” of April 22 to avoid renewed hostilities.
The Islamabad meeting represented the highest-level direct engagement between US and Iranian officials in years. The talks lasted several hours and saw intense negotiations, with some progress made but no final agreement reached.
Major sticking points remain unresolved
According to officials cited in the report, several key issues continue to block a breakthrough:
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Reopening the Strait of Hormuz without imposing transit fees
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The future of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile
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Tehran’s demand for the release of approximately $27 billion in frozen overseas assets
Iran proposed alternative solutions
The report said Iran proposed alternative arrangements, including limiting its uranium enrichment or reducing its stockpile. However, both sides failed to agree on acceptable terms, leaving negotiations at a standstill.
Also Read: Trump announces Hormuz blockade as US-Iran talks collapse
Despite the lack of a breakthrough, officials believe there is still momentum for continued engagement.
Arab News reported that diplomatic sources indicate movement toward the next phase of talks is already taking shape. He added that negotiations could resume in Islamabad or possibly at another venue in Europe, with Pakistan continuing to play a facilitative role.
Ceasefire extension under discussion
Regional governments are also urging Washington to extend the fragile two-week ceasefire announced last week. The aim is to preserve diplomatic space and allow negotiations to continue without a return to conflict.
With the April 22 deadline approaching, mediators are racing against time to secure progress. Officials remain cautiously optimistic that continued dialogue could prevent a breakdown and lead to a broader agreement.
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