The second round of mediation talks regarding peace in the Middle East, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan, is now surrounded by uncertainty. At present, the exact timing of these peace talks has not been decided yet. It is believed that Iran has taken a tough stance against America on the issue of Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the ceasefire currently in force between Iran and America is about to expire on April 21. Both the countries are currently going through a phase of making cautious statements towards each other. Despite the ceasefire, Iran—within just 24 hours—reimposed a blockade of previously opened sea routes through the Strait of Hormuz; This move appears to have dashed the budding hopes of peace talks between the two countries. In this background, news agency Reuters, citing Pakistani security sources, reported that Pakistan Army Chief, Asim Munir spoke to US President Donald Trump. He reportedly conveyed that the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is an obstacle to the ongoing talks. In response, Trump reportedly assured Munir that he would give his advice due consideration.
Iran-US ceasefire is set to end on April 21
Earlier, US President Donald Trump had announced that a two-week ceasefire between the two sides would remain in force. As the deadline approaches, US media outlets have reported that US Special Envoy for Peacekeeping Mission—Steve Witkoff—along with President Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, will soon be traveling to Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad; This visit will be for the second round of peace talks with Iran. Citing the US Commander-in-Chief, *New York Post* reported that President Trump’s Middle East envoy (Steve Witkoff) is visiting Pakistan this week to restart talks with Iran aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. It is noteworthy that it has also been told that J.D. was included in the delegation going to Pakistan on this occasion. Vance will not attend.
Increased stir in Islamabad on Sunday
Early in the day on Sunday, a lot of activity was seen in Islamabad. The reason for this was the reports according to which, four American military aircraft had landed at Noor Khan Airbase in Pakistan. Meanwhile, speculations were also rife that preparations for the second round of talks had intensified. It was told that the number of such aircraft was four. Meanwhile, Islamabad Police also issued an advisory on social media regarding diversion of traffic routes. According to reports, the US military aircraft that landed at the Noor Khan airbase carried—along with other security equipment—US Vice President J.D. Vance’s entourage was also present.
Apart from this, 22 Secret Service officers of America also reached Pakistan. Iran, on the other hand, flatly refused any kind of negotiations; Tehran believes that America is making too many demands. Additionally, President Pezheshkian made a statement regarding the country’s nuclear program that no one can deprive the country of its technological rights.
