Ruptly
"Security was tightened around key sites in Islamabad on Monday ahead of a widely anticipated second round of talks between the United States and Iran. Footage shows armed personnel deployed near the Presidential Palace and the Serena Hotel, with checkpoints established and vehicles being searched. Signs referencing the talks are visible near the venue. "The second round of US-Iran talks is expected to begin. We hope that when both sides sit at the table, a solution will be reached. We are hopeful that these talks yield a positive change, specifically in terms of deflation," said local resident Malek Shafiq. Pakistan has been playing a central mediating role. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the evolving regional situation, according to local media. US President Donald Trump confirmed that American representatives would travel to Islamabad for the negotiations. "My representatives are going to Islamabad on Monday. They will be there for negotiations with Iran," he said. The Strait of Hormuz has re-emerged as the central sticking point in negotiations, with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declaring the route effectively closed to most commercial traffic after a period of ambiguity. Washington is demanding the full reopening of the Strait while Tehran rejected the conditions, arguing the ongoing blockade violates the terms of the ceasefire. Over the weekend, tensions escalated as US forces attacked and seized the Iranian ship 'Touska'. On Monday, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran doesn't 'have a plan yet' for negotiations and questioned the sincerity of Washington's commitment to peace. "The topic highlights that the US, simultaneously with other diplomatic efforts and readiness for negotiations, is undertaking actions. It does not in any way indicate seriousness in sticking to a diplomatic path," Baqaei said. A first round of talks held on April 11 ended without agreement, following a two-week conditional ceasefire announced on April 8. The outcome of the second round is being closely watched as both sides face pressure to reach a deal before the ceasefire expires."
Go to News Site