US–Iran peace talks restarting? Another Islamabad meeting reportedly on the cards this week

Negotiations between the United States and Iran are set to resume, with Islamabad emerging once again as the likely venue for a second round of high-stakes talks later this week, according to sources. According to foreign media reports both sides are keeping Friday to Sunday open for a possible meeting, even as tensions remain high over Iran’s nuclear programme and the strategic Strait of Hormuz - a route that handles nearly 20 per cent of global crude oil supply.

The renewed diplomatic push comes just days after the first round of talks - the highest-level engagement between the two countries in decades - ended without a breakthrough. While no formal date has been announced, Pakistan has stepped up efforts to facilitate dialogue, with sources indicating that both Washington and Tehran are open to continuing discussions. The urgency is driven not only by geopolitical tensions but also by growing concerns over global energy supply disruptions linked to the Strait.

According to foreign media, delegations from both countries are keeping the weekend open, signalling flexibility and intent to re-engage. Pakistani authorities are in active communication with both sides to finalise logistics, though the venue could shift if either country pushes for a neutral location such as Geneva.

What happened in the first round of US–Iran talks

The previous meeting in Islamabad marked a rare moment of direct engagement between Washington and Tehran, the first in over a decade and the most senior-level contact since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution.

The US delegation was led by Vice President JD Vance, while Iran was represented by Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf. The talks focused on several contentious issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, international sanctions, and the Strait of Hormuz.

After the meeting, Vance described the US proposal as a “final and best offer”, indicating Washington’s firm stance. However, both sides failed to reach consensus, particularly on nuclear restrictions, which ultimately derailed progress.

Strait of Hormuz: Why 20% global crude supply is at stake

At the heart of the conflict lies the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints. Nearly 20 per cent of global crude oil passes through this narrow waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

Since the escalation in tensions, vessel movement has sharply declined. Iran has effectively blocked the route, while the US has vowed to reopen it. The situation has raised alarms across global markets, as prolonged disruption could significantly impact oil prices and supply chains.

Trump’s Stance: Pressure, blockade, and mixed signals

US President Donald Trump has taken a hardline approach, announcing a naval blockade of Iran’s ports and coastal areas after the talks failed.

At the same time, Trump has sent mixed signals on diplomacy. While reports suggest he is keen on securing a resolution ahead of upcoming international engagements, including a planned visit to China in May, his public remarks indicate otherwise.

“I don’t care if they come back or not. If they don’t come back, I’m fine,” Trump said, casting uncertainty over Washington’s negotiating posture.

Iran’s Position: Open but with conditions

Tehran has indicated cautious willingness to return to the table but is seeking guarantees that any agreement can be presented domestically as a strategic success. Iranian sources told foreign media that while no date has been fixed, there is openness to a second round. However, the leadership remains firm on protecting national interests, especially concerning its nuclear programme and sanctions relief.