US, Iran planning new ceasefire talks despite blockade: report

Another round of talks could take place before the ceasefire expires on April 21.

By World Israel News Staff

The United States and Iran remain open to reaching a deal to end ongoing hostilities, despite the breakdown of talks held in Pakistan over the weekend.

Multiple sources who spoke to Reuters said diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran is “still alive,” with neither side ruling out continued negotiations. Officials indicated that both parties may reconvene in Islamabad before the current two-week ceasefire expires on April 21.

According to analysts, U.S. President Donald Trump could also extend the truce deadline to allow more time for a long-term agreement to take shape.

“There was strong hope in the middle of the talks that there would be a breakthrough and the two sides would reach an agreement. However, things changed quickly,” a Pakistani government source told Reuters.

The marathon negotiations in Islamabad lasted nearly 24 hours, but ultimately failed to produce a deal. Upon departing from Pakistan on Saturday, Vice President JD Vance struck an optimistic tone.

“We leave here with a very simple proposal, a framework of understanding that is our final and best offer,” Vance said during a press conference. “We’ll see if the Iranians accept it.”

Signs of continued diplomatic movement emerged Monday, when Trump said Iran had reached out earlier in the day, expressing interest in making a deal. Reuters, however, was unable to independently verify that claim.

A senior Trump administration official also told Reuters there is “continued engagement” between Washington and Tehran, emphasizing “forward motion on trying to get to an agreement.”

On Monday, Trump announced the start of a naval blockade targeting key Iranian maritime assets, including the Strait of Hormuz and several Iranian ports.

Some commentators have suggested that the blockade is a strategic maneuver meant to force Iran back to the negotiating table.

Trump also warned on Monday that any country paying Iran for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be intercepted by U.S. warships.