US and Iran to Resume Negotiations in Islamabad This Weekend

Negotiators from the United States (US) and Iran will return to Islamabad, Pakistan, this week to continue discussions aimed at ending the war. The negotiations are expected to proceed despite the ongoing US blockade of Iranian ports.

According to Reuters on Tuesday (14/4/2026), several sources indicate the possibility of follow-up talks in Islamabad, Pakistan. Although the US blockade has prompted strong rhetoric from Tehran, there are signs that diplomatic channels remain open.

A source involved in the talks stated that the two countries could reconvene as soon as this weekend. A proposal has also been shared with Washington and Tehran to resend their delegations.

“No firm date has been set, but the delegations are considering the possibility from Friday to Sunday,” said a senior Iranian source.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump stated that Iran had contacted him on Monday (13/4) and wishes to reach an agreement. He emphasised that he will not approve any deal allowing Tehran to have nuclear weapons.

It is known that since the US and Israel initiated the conflict on 28 February, Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz to nearly all ships except its own. Iran has declared that navigation is only permitted under its control and subject to fees. Nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies previously passed through this narrow route, making the impact widespread.

In retaliation, the US military announced that it has begun blocking ship traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on Monday (13/4). Tehran has threatened to attack US Navy vessels crossing the strait and to retaliate against the ports of neighbouring Gulf countries.

A day after the US blockade was imposed, there have been no reports of direct US actions against ships to enforce the policy.

Shipping data shows at least three tankers linked to Iran crossing the Strait of Hormuz without heading to or coming from Iranian ports.