US, Iran Begin Direct Ceasefire Talks in Islamabad
Senior officials from the United States and Iran have begun direct negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan, in an effort to end the ongoing Middle East conflict that has destabilized the region and impacted global energy markets.
According to Iranian state media, the talks commenced on Saturday following preliminary meetings hosted by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who held separate discussions with both delegations, including US Vice President JD Vance.
The Iranian delegation is led by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, while the US side includes Vice President JD Vance, White House envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, former senior adviser to President Donald Trump.
The negotiations come amid escalating tensions in the region, with ongoing military operations, disruptions in maritime trade routes, and rising concerns over global oil supply chains.
Strait of Hormuz Tensions Ease Slightly
In a significant development, shipping data indicated that several large oil tankers passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, suggesting partial resumption of maritime traffic. The waterway, which handles nearly 20% of global oil shipments, had faced disruptions since the conflict began.
UN Calls for Accountability
Meanwhile, United Nations agencies have urged accountability for alleged violations of international humanitarian law, warning that civilian casualties continue to rise in the conflict zone. The UN emphasized that “even wars have rules” and called for strict compliance with international law.
Military Escalations Continue
Despite diplomatic efforts, violence continues on the ground. The Israeli military reported striking more than 200 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon within 24 hours. Lebanese authorities confirmed multiple casualties, including emergency workers.
Diplomatic Efforts Expand
International leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, have also discussed the situation, stressing the need for ceasefire enforcement and safe maritime navigation in the region.
The Islamabad talks are expected to continue through technical-level discussions over the coming days, with diplomats indicating that final outcomes will likely depend on behind-the-scenes negotiations.
