Soldiers patrol in Islamabad as Pakistan prepares to host the US and Iran for the second phase of peace talks, April 21, 2026 [Akhtar Soomro/Reuters]By Elizabeth Melimopoulos and AFPPublished On 21 Apr 202621 Apr 2026
Diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israel war on Iran remain uncertain, with Tehran refusing to negotiate under what it calls the “shadow of threats”.
United States President Donald Trump has said the blockade of Iranian ports will remain until a deal is reached, but Tehran wants it lifted before the talks. A two-week ceasefire expires on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Washington is also preparing for talks between Israel and Lebanon on Thursday, even as Israeli forces continue with their strikes in southern Lebanon. At least six people were wounded and homes destroyed in the attacks despite a 10-day ceasefire.
