US–Iran Prepare for Second Round, Hormuz Blockade a Ceasefire Test
The US and Iran are reportedly considering a second round of peace talks before the ceasefire announced on April 7 ends next week. Sources said options being discussed include a return to Pakistan—the site of the initial round last weekend—although other alternative locations are also being considered.
While diplomatic channels are being maintained, Washington is maintaining a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz to suppress Iranian oil exports, as the struggle for control of the strategic waterway escalates tensions. Iran is reportedly considering withholding its response to the blockade's effectiveness in the short term, as a measure that could ease tensions and open the way for further talks.
US President Donald Trump claimed he was "in contact with the right people" and expressed a desire to reach a deal, hours after the US Navy began enforcing the blockade to prevent ships from reaching Iranian ports and coastal areas. Trump also warned Iran against charging ships, arguing that "the world cannot be threatened or blackmailed."
In shipping lanes, the blockade is being tested by the movements of certain vessels. The medium-range tanker Rich Starry—said to be linked to China and subject to US sanctions—reportedly attempted to pass through Hormuz for the second time in less than 24 hours, while the Elpis was said to have passed through the strait hours earlier. This dynamic is in the spotlight because before the war, about a fifth of global oil and LNG shipments passed through Hormuz.
Diplomatically, Switzerland has expressed its readiness to support an end to the conflict amid speculation that talks could take place in Geneva, which has previously hosted discussions on Iran's nuclear program. However, the war, which has damaged infrastructure and disrupted energy flows, has also added to global inflationary pressures; the International Energy Agency said rising fuel prices such as aviation fuel and gasoline are already burdening consumers, indicating the first annual decline in global oil demand since 2020.
While fighting has largely subsided since the April 7 ceasefire, an exception has been Lebanon, where Israel continues operations against the Iranian-backed Hezbollah. Israeli-Lebanese talks are scheduled to take place in Washington on Tuesday to de-escalate the conflict, adding another variable that could affect regional stability. The market is now waiting to see whether a second round of US-Iran talks actually takes place, where it will take place, and whether the steps in Hormuz are moving toward easing or escalation. (gn)*
Source: Newsmaker.id
