Mediators involved in talks between the U.S. and Iran will continue working to bring back both parties to the negotiating table despite the failure of talks in Pakistan this weekend, according to a new report.
Axios noted that the mediators from Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey believe a deal is still possible and narrowing the gaps that lead to the collapse of negotiations in Islamabad could lead to another round of talks before the ceasefire expires next week.
The outlet also cited sources claiming that the naval blockade announced by President Donald Trump is part of a strategy to resume negotiations. Concretely, the move aimed at preventing Iran from using the Strait of Hormuz is meant as leverage in future talks.
A U.S. official told the outlet that a deal can be reached if Tehran shows flexibility and recognizes the offer it got in Islamabad is the best it can get.
Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghadam said the talks "laid the foundation for a diplomatic process that, if trust and will are strengthened, can create a sustainable framework for the interests of all parties."
The New York Times detailed during the weekend that the fate of the Strait of Hormuz, hundreds of pounds of enriched uranium and billions in frozen assets were some of the sticking points preventing an agreement.
Tehran refused to open the key waterway, through which about 20% of the global energy passes, before a final peace deal is reached, in contrast with Washington's demands that it happens immediately.
The U.S., in turn, refused to release some $27 billion in frozen revenue held abroad, which Tehran is seeking to fund reconstruction efforts after six weeks of war. The two sides also failed to reach an agreement about what should be done with some 900 pounds of enriched uranium in Iran.
Before departing Pakistan, Vice President JD Vance said the U.S. delegation "made very clear what our red lines are, what things we're willing to accommodate them on, and what things we're not willing to accommodate them on, and we've made that as clear as we possibly could, and may have chosen not to accept our terms."
He went on to detail that the U.S. needs a more firm commitment from the Tehran regime about not developing a nuclear weapon to move towards an agreement.
