US and Iran enter critical nuclear talks phase in Pakistan over Strait of Hormuz control

The United States and Iran entered a critical third round of negotiations in Islamabad on April 2026, with Pakistan mediating discussions on nuclear policy, regional security, and control of the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Talks extended late into multiple nights, with both sides signaling this phase could determine whether a framework agreement is reached before negotiations collapse. The dispute over the Hormuz Strait—through which roughly one-third of global seaborne oil passes—directly affects international energy markets and shipping routes vital to US allies and global commerce. Iran has set firm preconditions for any deal, raising stakes for a breakthrough or breakdown.