US Optimistic Second Round of Talks in Pakistan Will Reach Agreement with Iran

The United States is discussing the possibility of holding a second round of peace talks with Iran in Pakistan. The White House expressed optimism about reaching an agreement. “Those discussions are ongoing, and we are optimistic about the prospect of an agreement,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters, as cited by AFP on Thursday (16/4/2026). Leavitt added that further talks are “very likely” to be held in Islamabad. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump stated that Iran contacted him on Monday (13/4) and wants to reach an agreement. He emphasised that he would not approve any deal that allows Tehran to possess 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 stated 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 the narrow waterway, resulting in widespread impacts. As a retaliatory measure, the US military announced it has begun blocking ship traffic in and out of Iranian ports on Monday (13/4). Tehran threatened to attack US Navy ships 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 actions by Washington against ships to enforce the policy. Shipping data shows at least three tankers linked to Iran crossed the Strait of Hormuz without heading to or coming from Iranian ports.