US, Iran discuss 'another round' of direct talks before current ceasefire expires

The United States and Iran are in active discussions about holding another round of face-to-face negotiations aimed at securing a longer-term ceasefire and preventing renewed conflict after recent talks in Pakistan ended without a deal, Bloomberg reported, citing "people familiar with the matter".

The proposal under discussion focuses on scheduling a follow-up meeting before the current temporary ceasefire — brokered earlier in April — expires later this month.

Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here.

Both sides have signalled they want to keep diplomatic channels open even after the latest round in Islamabad, Pakistan, failed to produce a comprehensive agreement.

Possible venue: Islamabad

Islamabad has been suggested as one of the possible venues for this next round of negotiations, highlighting Pakistan’s role as a key mediator between Washington and Tehran amid the ongoing tension.

Pakistani officials have said they are "engaged" with both parties to help revive the diplomatic process before the ceasefire lapses.

The talks come against a backdrop of a fragile cease-fire and broader regional conflict that has at times threatened to escalate into wider hostilities, including economic disruption in global energy markets.