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A high-stakes second round of peace talks between the United States and Iran is set to ignite in the Pakistani capital. President Donald Trump, eyeing a breakthrough, has praised the mediation of Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, as diplomats scramble to resolve the deepening Middle East crisis.
Direct Talks Resume in Islamabad
The diplomatic spotlight returns to Pakistan this Thursday. Following a grueling 21-hour marathon in the first phase, preparations are now on high alert. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed to the New York Post that a second round could happen within 48 hours. He lauded Field Marshal Asim Munir’s “excellent work,” signaling that Islamabad remains the preferred neutral ground.
The Blockade and Economic Toll
While the olive branch is extended, the pressure remains. A U.S. naval blockade currently chokes Iranian ports, with CENTCOM reporting a total halt in vessel traffic.
- Economic Impact: Iran reports staggering losses of $270 billion.
- The Demands: Tehran is seeking reparations from regional neighbors including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, citing violations of international obligations.
- China’s Stance: Beijing has labeled the blockade “dangerous and irresponsible,” warning it could sabotage any potential ceasefire.
Lebanon and the Regional Puzzle
In Washington, parallel discussions between Israel and Lebanon show rare alignment. Israel’s Ambassador, Yechiel Leiter, claimed a shared goal: liberating Lebanon from Hezbollah’s influence. However, Vice President J.D. Vance warns that for the Islamabad track to succeed, Tehran must show “flexibility” on key U.S. demands regarding its nuclear program.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian remains firm on diplomacy, telling French President Emmanuel Macron that “threats and military action” will fail. As Russia enters the fray via telephone diplomacy with Tehran, the world watches Islamabad. The “ball is in Tehran’s court,” but the path to peace runs directly through Pakistan.
English (US) ·