Washington: The United States has expressed confidence in ongoing negotiations with Iran, with the White House indicating that a second round of peace talks could soon take place in Islamabad. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said discussions are continuing and described the prospects of reaching an agreement as encouraging, adding that Pakistan remains central to the mediation process.
Leavitt dismissed reports suggesting Washington had sought a ceasefire extension, calling them inaccurate. She reiterated that both President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance view the talks as productive, with communication channels actively maintained through Pakistan, which she praised for its key diplomatic role.
Meanwhile, Trump claimed China had agreed not to supply weapons to Iran and said efforts were underway to permanently reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He is scheduled to visit Beijing in mid-May for talks with President Xi Jinping, marking his first trip to China during his second term.
On the Iranian side, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that message exchanges with the US are ongoing via Pakistan, with a Pakistani delegation expected in Tehran. President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran seeks dialogue rather than conflict, while warning against any attempts to impose pressure on the country.
Despite diplomatic signals, tensions remain high. The US has enforced a naval blockade that it says has halted nearly all Iranian maritime trade, a move Tehran has warned could trigger retaliation and disrupt shipping across key regional waterways.
Trump said the conflict is “very close to over” and suggested it could end either through a negotiated settlement or decisive military action. While both sides appear cautiously optimistic, major disagreements persist, particularly over Iran’s nuclear programme and the duration of any proposed suspension.
Backchannel discussions have reportedly narrowed differences, raising hopes for progress in upcoming talks. However, continued Israeli military operations in Lebanon and broader regional tensions remain significant obstacles to a lasting agreement.