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U.S. presses Iran with incentives and threats as ceasefire talks resume
Ziggy Ojiegbe
The United States and Iran have entered a critical phase of negotiations, combining economic incentives with military pressure as both sides attempt to resolve disputes over Iran’s nuclear program and regional security tensions.
Talks are being brokered by Pakistan, which is preparing to host a second round of discussions after an earlier ceasefire effort collapsed. Disagreements over maritime access in the Strait of Hormuz and a potential Israel-Lebanon ceasefire derailed the first attempt.
A Pakistani delegation led by Asim Munir visited Tehran on April 15, where officials delivered what was described as a final U.S. message to Iranian authorities. The next round of face-to-face talks is expected to take place in Islamabad.
At the same time, Washington has increased military pressure. The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Dan Caine, said U.S. forces would expand efforts to track and intercept vessels linked to Iran, signaling a broader maritime blockade beyond the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite the escalation, diplomatic momentum appears to be building. The U.S. has reportedly proposed a $250 billion economic support package in exchange for Iran transferring its stockpile of highly enriched uranium abroad. In return, Iran has indicated it may guarantee safe passage for commercial shipping through nearby waters.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is open to “rational and realistic solutions,” while officials suggested there is flexibility on limits to uranium enrichment.
Regional tensions remain a complicating factor. In Lebanon, President Joseph Aoun has refused direct talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite U.S. efforts to ease hostilities between the two countries.
Reports of Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon have further raised doubts about the timing of any broader agreement. A short-term ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon had been seen as a potential catalyst for progress in U.S.-Iran talks.
U.S. officials have struck a cautious tone. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt described the dialogue as “productive,” while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that military action remains an option if negotiations fail.
With a temporary ceasefire set to expire on April 21, both sides are now considering a two-week extension to allow more time for negotiations.
