Optimism grew Thursday that the war involving Iran could be nearing a diplomatic breakthrough, though major disagreements over Tehran’s nuclear program continue to stand in the way of a final settlement.
According to Reuters, Pakistani mediators reported progress after new talks in Tehran aimed at extending a fragile ceasefire and restarting negotiations between Iran and the United States. Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, traveled to Tehran this week after earlier talks in Islamabad failed to produce an agreement.
A senior Iranian official said the latest discussions improved prospects for another round of talks and a continuation of the current two-week ceasefire, but said core disputes remain unresolved.
The biggest obstacle continues to be Iran’s nuclear program. Reuters reported the United States has proposed a 20-year suspension of Iranian nuclear activity, while Tehran has suggested a three- to five-year halt. Washington is also seeking the removal of enriched nuclear material from Iran, while Iran wants international sanctions lifted. ([Reuters][1])
The war began Feb. 28 with U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran, triggering retaliatory Iranian strikes on Gulf neighbors and renewed fighting involving the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement in Lebanon. Thousands have reportedly been killed, most of them in Iran and Lebanon. ([Reuters][1])
Regional diplomacy is also expanding beyond Iran itself.
Reuters reported Israel’s cabinet has discussed a possible ceasefire in Lebanon, where fighting has continued alongside the broader conflict. President Donald Trump said leaders of Israel and Lebanon were expected to speak directly for the first time in decades.
Global markets responded positively to hopes for a settlement. Stock indexes in the United States and Asia reached record highs this week as investors anticipated an easing of military tensions. Oil prices, however, remained volatile because of uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply.
Iran has sharply limited shipping traffic through the strait during the conflict, disrupting global energy markets. Reuters reported Tehran may allow freer passage through parts of the waterway if a peace deal is reached.
No date has been announced for the next round of formal negotiations, but officials involved in mediation said both sides remain willing to continue talks.
Source: Reuters