President Donald Trump described Iran’s current leaders as “very reasonable” while confirming direct and indirect discussions with Tehran, as Pakistan prepares to host talks.
The potential negotiations aim to end the month-long Iran war, which has killed thousands and disrupted global energy supplies. Trump’s remarks came amid the arrival of additional US troops to the region and heightened warnings from Tehran.
The US-Pakistan-mediated talks were discussed after regional foreign ministers met to explore ways to achieve a lasting settlement. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said Islamabad would be “honoured to host and facilitate meaningful talks” between Washington and Tehran. It remains unclear whether both sides have formally agreed to participate.
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Tensions remain high as Iran’s parliament warned against any US attempts at humiliation and potential ground invasion. Meanwhile, Israel has continued air strikes, targeting missile launch sites and military facilities across central and western Iran, including Tehran. Iran’s state media reported damage to Mehrabad airport, Tabriz petrochemical facilities, and ongoing threats from missile debris in southern Israel.
The war has severely impacted global energy markets, with Iran’s partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz spiking oil prices and raising inflation risks worldwide. Brent crude futures jumped above $115 per barrel, while Asian stock markets, including Japan’s Nikkei index, suffered significant losses. Analysts warn that prolonged conflict could trigger a global economic slowdown.
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The US has dispatched additional troops, including special operations forces and Marines, while military options for ground operations remain under consideration. Trump has publicly discussed seizing Iran’s Kharg Island to control oil exports, though such a move would require a full-scale ground invasion. Meanwhile, Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis have entered the conflict, launching attacks on Israel and threatening the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.