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Saturday, April 11, 2026

US-Iran Talks Extended As Trump Says It 'Makes No Difference' If Peace Deal Reached

<p>Talks between Iran and the United States in Islamabad have been extended by another day after prolonged discussions, with both sides continuing engagement despite unresolved differences and exchanging draft texts.</p> <p>According to Press TV, negotiations lasted over 15 hours, stretching late into the night before concluding early Sunday. The dialogue, mediated by Pakistan, is set to resume following a brief pause.</p> <p>In a statement shared by Tehran, officials confirmed ongoing engagement: "Iran-U.S. talks mediated by Pakistan concluded after 14 hours. Technical teams from both sides are now exchanging expert texts. Negotiations will continue despite some remaining differences."</p> <p>"At Pakistan's proposal and with the agreement of the negotiating teams of #Iran and the U.S., talks mediated by Pakistan will continue for another round after a pause on Sunday," the statement by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran on X further noted.</p> <h3>Exchange Of Draft Texts</h3> <p>Following the in-person discussions, both sides exchanged written drafts outlining areas of understanding. This step is seen as an attempt to formalise progress made during the talks and identify remaining points of contention.</p> <p>The talks began at the Serena Hotel in Islamabad, with Iranian officials first meeting Pakistani counterparts before engaging with the US delegation. Reports suggest that senior representatives from both sides participated, underlining the significance of the diplomatic effort.</p> <p>The extended duration of discussions highlights the complexity and urgency surrounding the negotiations, which are taking place amid a fragile ceasefire.</p> <h3>Trump’s Remarks Amid US-Iran Talks</h3> <p>Amid ongoing discussions, US President Donald Trump seemed strong confidence in America's position amid the ongoing peace talks, expressing indifference regarding the outcome of the negotiations. He said US stands to "win" regardless of whether a deal is reached.</p> <p>Speaking to reporters, he stated, "We will see what happens. We are in a deep negotiation with Iran, we win regardless. We have defeated them militarily... We are sweeping the Strait. Whether we make a deal or not, it makes no difference to me and the reason is because we've won... We were not helped by NATO."</p> <p>On US-Iran peace talks, he said: "They've been meeting for many hours. We will see what happens. Regardless of that, we win. Maybe they make a deal; maybe they don't. It doesn't matter. From the standpoint of America, we win. The boats are sailing up and heading out to our country. We are loading the huge tankers with oil and gas."</p> <p> </p>

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-iran-talks-extended-as-trump-says-it-makes-no-difference-if-peace-deal-reached-1835985

India’s growth rooted in policy dialogue, says Ambassador Kwatra at UT Austin conference

<p>Houston, Apr 12 (PTI): Indian Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra, has underscored that India’s transition toward a developed nation by 2047 is anchored in informed academic and policy discourse.</p><p>Kwatra made the comments during his virtual address at the inaugural Austin India Conference themed ‘India at 100: Decades of Decisions’, which was hosted recently by the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas (UT), Austin.</p><p>Commending the university and the organisers for convening scholars, students, and practitioners, Kwatra said such forward-looking initiatives are critical to deliberating on India’s journey toward Vision 2047, or ‘Viksit Bharat’.</p><p>He highlighted that the decisions shaping India’s growth are rooted in deep policy discussions, forming the foundation for the country’s transformative progress in the coming decades.</p><p>Kwatra also emphasised that India’s development and innovation journey will generate shared benefits for both India and the US, reflecting a deepening strategic and economic convergence.</p><p>Participating in a session titled ‘The Growth Triangle’, India’s Consul General in Houston, D C Manjunath, observed that India-US relations continue to strengthen through government, business, and people-to-people engagements.</p><p>Highlighting the importance of subnational ties, he identified the expanding collaboration between India and Texas as a vital pillar of the broader bilateral partnership.</p><p>The event provided insights into India’s evolving policy landscape and development priorities, reflecting a surge in academic interest in the country's growth story.</p><p>Manjunath expressed appreciation to the UT Austin leadership and faculty, and noted a commitment to continued collaboration with research institutions across Texas to foster global innovation and shared progress. PTI SHK ARI</p><p><i>(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)</i></p>

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/india-s-growth-rooted-in-policy-dialogue-says-ambassador-kwatra-at-ut-austin-conference-1835984

US-Iran Wrap First Phase Of Talks; Pakistan Pushes For Extension As Hormuz Moves Intensify: Top Updates

<p><strong>US-Iran Peace Talks: </strong>The first phase of in-person talks between the United States and Iran concluded in Islamabad on Saturday night after hours of negotiations involving multiple stakeholders, marking a significant step in ongoing diplomatic efforts.</p> <p>Following the discussions, both delegations exchanged written texts to confirm areas of agreement reached during the day, according to Al Jazeera. The move signals an attempt to formalise progress made during the face-to-face engagement.</p> <h2>Asset Freeze Issue Emerges as Key Breakthrough</h2> <p>A source from the Iranian delegation told the broadcaster that Tehran agreed to participate in the talks after Washington decided to release frozen Iranian assets, a key demand outlined in Iran’s 10-point plan. However, the United States has not officially confirmed whether such a decision has been finalised.</p> <p>The negotiations reportedly unfolded in a congenial atmosphere, with multiple rounds of discussions held. Delegates also shared a dinner before exchanging documents, indicating a relatively positive tone despite longstanding tensions.</p> <h2>Pakistan Seeks Extension for Further Progress</h2> <p>Pakistani officials are now pushing for an extension of the talks, hoping to secure at least another day of dialogue to move closer to a conclusive agreement. While no extension has been confirmed so far, diplomats remain optimistic and are urging both sides to show greater flexibility.</p> <p>The next steps will depend on decisions taken by the leadership in Washington and Tehran, including whether direct, face-to-face negotiations will continue and what framework will guide future talks.</p> <h2>Hormuz Developments Add Strategic Pressure</h2> <p>Even as talks progressed, the US military confirmed that two of its warships, USS Frank E Peterson and USS Michael Murphy, transited the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command said the move was part of a broader mission to ensure the waterway is cleared of sea mines allegedly laid by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.</p> <p>President Donald Trump, posting on Truth Social, reiterated that the US has begun efforts to “clear out” the Strait, describing it as a service to global powers. He also repeated claims that Iran is “losing big” in the conflict and suggested its remaining threat lies in sea mines in the strategic passage.</p> <h2>Delicate Balance Between Diplomacy and Military Moves</h2> <p>The developments highlight the fragile balance between diplomacy and military signalling in the region. While talks in Islamabad offer a potential pathway to de-escalation, parallel actions in the Strait of Hormuz underscore the high stakes involved for global energy security and regional stability.</p>

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-iran-peace-talks-live-updates-wrap-first-phase-of-talks-pakistan-pushes-for-extension-as-hormuz-moves-intensify-1835976

Friday, April 10, 2026

Trump Vows To Reopen Hormuz ‘Soon’, Says ‘With or Without Iran’ Amid Tensions

<p>U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that Washington is moving ahead with plans to reopen the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz, signaling a bold stance despite ongoing tensions with Iran. Speaking to reporters on Friday before departing Joint Base Andrews aboard Air Force One, Trump acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained firm on the outcome.</p> <p>“We will have that open fairly soon,” he said adding, "with or without them", as per reports.</p> <h3>Strait Of Hormuz: Strategic Lifeline At Center Of Conflict</h3> <p>The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial artery for global energy supplies, handling roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas shipments. Since the outbreak of the current conflict, Iran has effectively blocked the waterway, disrupting international shipping and sending shockwaves through global markets.</p> <p>Trump insisted that the strait, as an international passage, cannot be controlled unilaterally. He dismissed suggestions that Tehran could impose fees on vessels, following reports that Iran intended to charge a $1-per-barrel toll. Oman, which shares control over the strait, has denied those claims.</p> <h3>Allies Expected To Step In</h3> <p>While the U.S. prepares to act, Trump hinted that other nations dependent on the route are ready to contribute to efforts aimed at reopening the passage. However, he stopped short of identifying specific countries.</p> <p>At the same time, Trump voiced frustration with NATO allies, urging them to take on a more active role in safeguarding the strait. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has reportedly conveyed Trump’s call for firm commitments from European governments.</p> <h3>Diplomatic Push Amid Military Claims</h3> <p>The remarks come ahead of anticipated negotiations in Pakistan, where U.S. envoys including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to engage Iranian representatives. The delegation from Tehran is set to include Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.</p> <p>Despite the planned talks, Trump downplayed the need for contingency strategies, asserting that Iran’s military capabilities have already been significantly weakened. He claimed that U.S. and Israeli operations had dismantled much of Iran’s air force, missile systems, and leadership structure, adding that the strait would reopen “automatically” as a consequence.</p> <h3>Fragile Truce Under Pressure</h3> <p>The situation remains volatile, with a tenuous two-week ceasefire between Washington and Tehran showing signs of strain. Israel has continued military operations in Lebanon, further complicating the regional picture.</p> <p>Hezbollah entered the conflict following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at the outset of hostilities, escalating the crisis into a broader regional confrontation.</p> <h3>Conflict’s Global Ripple Effects</h3> <p>The war, triggered by U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, has rapidly expanded, drawing in multiple actors across the region. Iran responded with attacks on Israeli territory and U.S. bases in the Gulf, while Israeli operations in Lebanon have resulted in heavy casualties and mass displacement.</p> <p>The disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has already driven up oil prices and unsettled global markets. With tensions still high and negotiations uncertain, the fate of the ceasefire — and the stability of global energy supplies — hangs in the balance.</p>

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/trump-strait-of-hormuz-reopening-fairly-soon-despite-tensions-with-or-without-iran-1835832

Israel, Lebanon Set For US-Mediated Talks In Washington On April 14 After Rare Direct Call

<p>In a rare diplomatic development, Lebanon and Israel have initiated direct contact through a phone conversation between their ambassadors in Washington, marking an unusual step for two nations that remain technically at war. The call, arranged by the United States, also included the U.S. ambassador to Lebanon, according to confirmation from the Lebanese presidency.</p> <p>The exchange signals a cautious opening in a relationship defined by decades of hostility and the absence of formal diplomatic ties. While limited in scope, the communication has already led to a more tangible outcome: both sides have agreed to meet in person on April 14 at the U.S. State Department.</p> <h3>Lebanon-Israel Talks: A Fragile Opening for Dialogue</h3> <p>The upcoming meeting in Washington is expected to focus on establishing the groundwork for a ceasefire and outlining a timeline for broader negotiations. U.S. officials are set to mediate the discussions, reflecting Washington’s continued role as a key intermediary in the region, as per a report on India Today.</p> <p>Diplomatic observers view the planned talks as a tentative but meaningful step toward de-escalation, particularly against the backdrop of heightened tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border. The fact that both sides have agreed to a face-to-face meeting underscores the urgency of the situation and the potential for further diplomatic engagement.</p> <h3>Escalation Shadows Peace Efforts</h3> <p>The dialogue comes at a time of intensified conflict. Following Washington’s announcement of a ceasefire framework, Israel carried out a series of strikes in Lebanon. According to Lebanese authorities, nearly 2,000 people have been killed and over 6,300 injured in the ongoing campaign targeting Hezbollah.</p> <p>In a particularly deadly wave of attacks after the ceasefire understanding was made public, at least 357 people were reported killed. The escalation has cast a shadow over the diplomatic initiative.</p> <h3>Disputes Over Ceasefire Terms</h3> <p>A major sticking point remains the scope of the ceasefire arrangement. Iran maintains that Lebanon was included in the agreement, while Israel disputes this claim, asserting that its operations fall outside any such framework, as per reports.</p> <p>Tehran has warned that continued Israeli strikes could jeopardize the upcoming talks and increase the risk of a wider regional conflict. These conflicting positions highlight the complexity of the negotiations and the challenges facing U.S. mediation efforts.</p> <h3>Decades Of Conflict Loom Large</h3> <p>The latest developments unfold against a long history of animosity between the two countries. Lebanon and Israel have technically been in a state of war since 1948, with periodic escalations shaping their relationship.</p> <p>One of the most significant confrontations, the 2006 Lebanon War, resulted in widespread devastation and loss of life on both sides. As the April 14 meeting approaches, the legacy of past conflicts serves as a stark reminder of the stakes involved in any attempt at reconciliation.</p>

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/israel-lebanon-talks-us-mediated-in-washington-on-april-14-after-rare-direct-call-hezbollah-1835825

Iranian Delegation Arrives In Islamabad For Peace Talks; Trump Says Tehran 'Alive Only To Negotiate'

<p>An Iranian delegation has reached Islamabad for high-stakes peace talks with the United States, even as tensions and mistrust continue to cast uncertainty over the negotiations.<br /><br />The talks follow a temporary ceasefire announced by Donald Trump earlier this week, pausing a six-week-long conflict involving U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. While the truce has halted direct military action, key flashpoints remain unresolved, including Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing hostilities involving Hezbollah.</p> <h3>Iran Says Talks To Start If US Meets Preconditions</h3> <p>The Iranian team, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, arrived in Islamabad with a large contingent of officials and technical experts. The size and composition of the delegation reflect the complexity and sensitivity of the negotiations, news agency Reuters reported, citing Iranian sources</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Pakistan | The Iranian delegation led by parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrived in Islamabad on Saturday (April 10th) for talks to resolve the conflict with the ⁠US and Israel <br /><br />(Video Source: Reuters) <a href="https://t.co/D3AVmH7pIN">pic.twitter.com/D3AVmH7pIN</a></p> — ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2042781914982158760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <p> <script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script> </p> <p>Iran has set preconditions for formal talks, including the unfreezing of its overseas assets and assurances regarding a ceasefire in Lebanon. Qalibaf indicated that discussions would not proceed unless these commitments are honoured. </p> <h3>'Goodwill But No Trust'</h3> <p>Speaking upon arrival, Qalibaf reiterated Tehran’s cautious stance, emphasising both openness to dialogue and deep scepticism toward Washington.</p> <p>“Our experience of negotiations with the Americans has always been met with failure and breach of promise. They attacked us twice in the middle of the negotiations. We have goodwill but no trust,” he said.</p> <p>He further noted that Iran remains willing to reach an agreement if the United States presents what he described as a genuine deal that respects Iran’s rights.</p> <h3>Iranians Don't Have Much On Cards: US</h3> <p>From the American side, US Vice President JD Vance is leading the negotiating team. While expressing optimism about the talks, he issued a cautionary note: “If they're going to try to play us, then they're going to find the negotiating team is not that receptive.”</p> <p>Meanwhile, Trump adopted a more confrontational tone in public remarks, stating, “The Iranians don't seem to realize they have no cards, other than a short term extortion of the World by using International Waterways. The only reason they are alive today is to negotiate!”</p>

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/us-iran-talks-iranian-delegation-arrives-in-islamabad-qalibaf-trump-says-tehran-alive-only-to-negotiate-1835823

Foreign Secretary Misri wraps up US visit with talks to deepen nuclear ties, explore LPG exports

<p>Washington, Apr 11 (PTI): India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri discussed furthering energy cooperation with the US in nuclear power and new areas such as coal gasification and LPG exports in his meeting with US Energy Secretary Chris Wright.</p><p>Wrapping up his three-day visit to the US, Misri’s discussion with Wright focused on advancing energy security, deepening bilateral energy trade and identifying new avenues to strengthen the India-US Energy Partnership, the Indian Embassy in the US said.</p><p>“Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri called on Energy Secretary Chris Wright @SecretaryWright @ENERGY. Discussions focused on advancing energy security, deepening bilateral energy trade, and identifying new avenues to strengthen the India-US Energy Partnership,” the embassy said.</p><p>US Ambassador to India, Sergei Gor, who was also present at the meeting on Friday, said the US was ready to cooperate with India on civil nuclear cooperation in addition to other areas, such as coal gasification and US LPG exports.</p><p>“Great to spend this (Friday) morning with @SecretaryWright and FS Vikram Misri to discuss the future of US-India energy cooperation. After India’s historic passage of the SHANTI bill, we are ready to cooperate on civil nuclear in addition to other areas such as coal gasification and US LPG exports,” Gor said in a post on X.</p><p>The Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy Act (SHANTI Act) is considered the most sweeping reform in the civil nuclear sector in India.</p><p>The law, which came into force last December, opens up the tightly-controlled civil nuclear space for private participation.</p><p>It also repealed the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act of 2010.</p><p>Misri arrived here late Tuesday night on a three-day visit.</p><p>He has held meetings with senior officials from the departments of defence, commerce and state.</p><p>Misri also met Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday.</p><p>India’s Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, the Chief of the Air Staff, was also on a visit to the US, and visited the Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs on Wednesday.</p><p>“He interacted with General Gregory M Guillot (Commander US-NORTHCOM/NORAD) for a productive exchange of perspectives on complex operational modalities, reflecting the strength of the growing partnership,” the IAF said in a post on X.</p><p>In separate meetings, Gor held discussions with Steve Feinberg, the US Deputy Secretary of Defence and Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll.</p><p>“Defence cooperation between the US and India is only growing and it’s making both our countries safer and stronger. Discussed with Deputy Secretary Feinberg ways that we can deepen ties, including through defense sales of US equipment, the best in the world, and strengthening interoperability,” Gor posted on X.</p><p>The US envoy said he discussed the momentum of the US-India relationship since Driscoll’s visit to New Delhi in January.</p><p>“Always great to see my friend and Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll @SecArmy where we discussed the momentum in the US-India relationship following his January visit. The US Army and the Indian Army will play an important role in bolstering defence ties,” Gor said.</p><p>The US envoy also met Dylan Johnson, the Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs, and Michael Needham, Counselor in the Department of State.</p><p>“Couldn’t wrap my visit to DC without seeing my friends @ASDylanJohnson and @MikeNeedham. Both are working tirelessly to make America stronger, safer and more prosperous! Looking forward to having both visit India very soon,” Gor said. PTI SKU ARI</p><p><i>(This story is published as part of the auto-generated syndicate wire feed. No editing has been done in the headline or the body by ABP Live.)</i></p>

source https://news.abplive.com/news/world/foreign-secretary-misri-wraps-up-us-visit-with-talks-to-deepen-nuclear-ties-explore-lpg-exports-1835821