The fragile US-Iran ceasefire appears to be broadly holding, despite Iran’s continued control over the Strait of Hormuz and contradictory statements from both sides over its terms. That talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, are still scheduled to start on 11 April in these circumstances is arguably a positive sign that both sides are seeking a negotiated settlement.
Still, the US and Iran remain far apart in their stated negotiating positions, while Israel is a wildcard with its own objectives that could yet disrupt the talks if it deems unacceptable any concessions that Washington might offer to Tehran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the 7 April ceasefire agreement was made in full coordination with Israel, but that “we still have goals to complete, and we will achieve them either by agreement or by the resumption of fighting.” (CONTINUED - 1121 WORDS)
