Israel solders stand beside artillery vehicle close to the Israel-Lebanon border in northern Israel on April 15, 2026. Image credit: Reuters/ Florion Goga
(The Post News)- There was growing hope on Thursday that the war in the Middle East could end soon. A key mediator from Pakistan was in Tehran, and the administration of Donald Trump said a deal might be close. This deal could reopen the important Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil.
Israel’s cabinet met on Wednesday to talk about a possible ceasefire in Lebanon, where fighting with Hezbollah has lasted more than six weeks. Lebanese officials said a ceasefire might be announced soon, according to reports.
Ending the fighting in Lebanon has been one of the biggest challenges in the peace talks. Another major issue is Iran’s nuclear programme.
“We feel positive about reaching a deal,” said White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt. She said talks led by Pakistan were ongoing and going well. She also denied claims that the U.S. had asked to extend the current two-week ceasefire that started on April 8.
Ceasefire Talks Continue in Pakistan
More face-to-face talks have not yet been confirmed but may happen again in Pakistan, according to Leavitt.
Pakistan’s military said General Asim Munir had arrived in Tehran to help continue discussions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi welcomed him and said Iran wants peace and stability in the region.
Previous Talks Failed
Talks last weekend ended without an agreement. The war began on February 28, when the U.S. and Israel launched actions that led to Iranian retaliation and renewed fighting with Hezbollah.
Financial markets have reacted positively to hopes of peace. U.S. stock markets reached record highs, and oil prices became more stable.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said China may stop buying Iranian oil because of the U.S. naval blockade. He warned that countries buying Iranian oil could face sanctions. The U.S. has already warned Chinese banks not to handle Iranian money.
The U.S. military said no ships have passed through Iranian ports since the blockade started, and several vessels were turned back. However, Iranian media reported that one oil tanker managed to pass through despite the blockade.
Iran warned it could stop trade in key waterways like the Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Red Sea if the blockade continues.
Iran has suggested it may allow safe passage for ships through part of the Strait of Hormuz if a deal is reached with the U.S.
Trump has warned that the U.S. could take stronger action if fighting starts again.
Iran’s nuclear programme remains a major issue. The U.S. wants Iran to stop nuclear activity for 20 years, while Iran has a shorter pause of three to five years. The U.S. also wants Iran to move its enriched nuclear material out of the country, while Iran wants sanctions to be lifted.
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