US-Iran reportedly set to resume talks next week

Washington (ANTARA) - Negotiations between the United States and Iran could resume in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, as early as next week, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on Friday (9/5). Citing several sources, the report stated that both parties, along with a mediator, are working to formulate a one-page memorandum of understanding containing 14 points that will establish a framework for negotiations over one month to end the war. The draft document will include discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme, easing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, and the possibility of handing over Iran’s enriched uranium reserves to another country, although several major issues remain unresolved. The report noted that the level of sanction reductions against Iran is still a point of contention and could hinder the talks. If the negotiations make progress, the initial one-month period could be extended by mutual agreement. Tensions in the region escalated after the US and Israel launched an attack on Iran on 28 February, which was followed by Iran’s retaliatory strikes. The war has caused disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and gas supplies. On 8 April, a ceasefire was agreed upon with mediation from Pakistan, but the first round of peace talks in Islamabad on 11 April failed to produce a long-term agreement. US President Donald Trump subsequently extended the ceasefire without a specified time limit. However, since 13 April, the US has blockaded Iran’s maritime traffic in those strategic waters.