The supposed ceasefire between the United States and Iran has appeared much more fragile than thought, with the two sides yet to find an agreement despite recent talks in Islamabad. However, Washington has left the door open for fresh face-to-face negotiations with Tehran, CNN reports.
It appears the US officials are considering the idea of holding yet another round of in-person meetings with their Iranian counterparts, just in time before the ceasefire expires. However, these talks are not final, with officials currently reviewing potential dates and locations.
The marathon meeting in Islamabad, which took place on April 11, marked the end of weeks of negotiations involving US officials and intermediaries between Pakistan, Egypt, Oman, Turkey and others. These talks ended without a deal, with US Vice President JD Vance citing Iran's refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
Nevertheless, the CNN report adds that another round of negotiations is still possible, with Turkey reportedly playing a role in bridging the gap between the two nations. Geneva is being discussed as a potential venue, although another round of talks in Islamabad has not been ruled out either.
The report adds that the US administration remains cautiously optimistic that a breakthrough could be achievable. Depending on the progress, both sides could still consider extending the ceasefire deadline to allow additional time for these fresh negotiations.
CNN cited a US official that discussions are still with Iran and that there is "continued engagement" and "forward motion on trying to get an agreement."
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump separately stated that Iran had reached out on Monday, claiming that Tehran would like to make a deal 'very badly'.
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