US and Iran hold direct talks on nuclear deal as regional tensions persist

White House officials confirmed face-to-face negotiations with Iranian representatives in April 2026, with a delegation landing in Pakistan to facilitate US-Iran discussions on sanctions relief and asset unfreezing. The talks represent a significant diplomatic shift after months of regional tensions involving Hormuz Strait disputes and Lebanon-related complications. The negotiations carry direct consequences for global energy markets and US Middle East policy, given American interests in strait security and sanctions architecture. Doubts remain over whether the parties can resolve disagreements on Lebanon and the scope of sanctions removal.