Pakistan is preparing to host a possible second round of talks between the United States and Iran, though uncertainty remains over whether they will take place. Field Marshal Asim Munir served as one of two Pakistani mediators during the initial talks on April 11, but Iranian officials have yet to commit to a second round as a ceasefire deadline approaches.
In preparation for the potential diplomatic gathering, a sensitive Red Zone in Islamabad has been blocked off to traffic and hotels have been closed off.
Tensions continue to rise around the economically vital Strait of Hormuz. While conflicting accounts suggest the waterway remained all but closed, Iran has partially reopened the strait under strict authorization and designated routes.
Both sides continue to maintain pressure through military and economic threats. Iranian officials insist that sanctions must be lifted and have rejected US demands to end nuclear activities.