Oil Prices React to Trump's Iran Conflict Timeline

Oil prices increased Thursday as President Trump indicated that a potential conflict with Iran would likely persist for another two to three weeks. A market analyst stated that Trump’s warning, lacking a plan to reopen the crucial Strait of Hormuz, “was far less than” investors had anticipated.

Pakistan Leads Diplomatic Efforts

Pakistan’s government is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, the Persian Gulf, and specifically with Iran. Foreign Ministry spokesman Tahir Andrabi announced Thursday that the country is acting as an intermediary between the Trump administration and Iranian leadership.

Regional Support for Pakistan's Initiative

Andrabi stated that Pakistan has the “full support” of Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and Kuwait in pursuing potential U.S.-Iran talks in Islamabad. These nations have reaffirmed their “unity to contain the situation, reduce the risk of military escalations, and create conditions and structures for negotiations between relevant parties.”

Prime Minister Sharif's Communication with Iran

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, briefing him on Pakistan’s peace initiative. Sharif emphasized the importance of building trust to facilitate talks and mediation, according to Andrabi.

Conflicting Statements on Ceasefire

President Trump claimed Wednesday, prior to his address to the nation, that Iran’s president had requested a ceasefire. However, Tehran swiftly denied this assertion. Both the Trump administration and Iranian officials have publicly expressed a desire for a diplomatic resolution, but their demands remain significantly divergent.

No Direct Negotiations Confirmed

Iran denies that any direct negotiations have taken place between the two countries, despite the stated willingness of both sides to explore diplomatic options.