The United States is in discussions to hold a second round of peace talks with Iran in Pakistan, with the White House expressing optimism that a deal could soon be reached, officials said on Wednesday.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that “discussions are being had” regarding the next phase of negotiations and added that there is growing confidence in the prospects of an agreement. She indicated that any follow-up talks would “very likely” take place in Islamabad.
The remarks come amid renewed diplomatic momentum following a fragile ceasefire agreement, which remains under strain as tensions persist between Washington and Tehran.
US President Donald Trump also suggested that the conflict may be nearing its end, telling Fox Business News that the war is “very close to over.” He added that both sides appear to be заинтересed in reaching a deal, though military and diplomatic pressure continues.
According to officials involved in mediation efforts, negotiations are focusing on three unresolved issues that previously stalled progress: Iran’s nuclear programme, the status of the Strait of Hormuz, and compensation for wartime damages.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel and the United States are aligned in their objectives regarding Iran, including the removal of enriched nuclear material, dismantling of enrichment capabilities, and reopening of key maritime routes.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a central point of contention, with shipping disruptions continuing to affect global energy markets.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said there is a “high probability” that talks will resume soon, citing ongoing diplomatic engagement with Pakistani officials, who have positioned themselves as mediators in the process.
Pakistan’s government has also expressed continued support for efforts to facilitate dialogue between the United States and Iran.
The conflict, which escalated after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year, has triggered broader regional instability and disruptions to global trade routes, particularly in the Gulf region.
