Iran’s foreign ministry has ruled out direct talks as US envoys are due to arrive in Pakistan amid hopes for progress on a ceasefire deal. More on DW.
The US and Iran on Friday both gave conflicting statements on the state of potential peace talks, as Pakistan tries to get a second round of negotiations off the ground.
The first round of talks in Islamabad two weeks ago led by US Vice President JD Vance ended after 21 hours with no progresstowards a deal. Since then, US President Donald Trump has said a ceasefire would be extended indefinitely, albeit while continuing to issue threats towards Tehran.
However, without a deal, the global econonmy remains on edge, as passage for goods, oil and gas through the Strait of Hormuz remains impeded by both the threat of Iranian attacks, and a US blockade on Iran-aligned shipping.