Pakistani officials said they remain optimistic about restarting U.S.-Iran talks within days, despite Iran’s seizure of two cargo vessels in the Strait of Hormuz complicating mediation efforts. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Iran’s ambassador as Islamabad works to bridge gaps between both sides. The cease-fire extension has kept diplomatic channels open, though uncertainty persists over Iran’s participation. Maleeha Lodhi, former ambassador, said “the cease-fire has opened a space… for the di

Pakistani officials said they remain optimistic about restarting U.S.-Iran talks within days, despite Iran’s seizure of two cargo vessels in the Strait of Hormuz complicating mediation efforts. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Iran’s ambassador as Islamabad works to bridge gaps between both sides. The cease-fire extension has kept diplomatic channels open, though uncertainty persists over Iran’s participation. Maleeha Lodhi, former ambassador, said “the cease-fire has opened a space… for the diplomatic path to resume,” adding “neither side has rejected talks.”