A second round of high-level negotiations between the United States and Iran is set to begin in Islamabad on April 20, as tensions rise and a temporary ceasefire nears its expiration.

The talks follow an earlier round that ended without progress, amid disagreements over Iran’s nuclear program and the future of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Washington has reiterated its firm position, warning that failure to reach an agreement could lead to military escalation targeting critical infrastructure.

At the same time, both sides have exchanged accusations of ceasefire violations, with the United States alleging attacks on vessels in the strait and Iran rejecting the claims while criticizing U.S. maritime actions.

Economic pressure on Iran is intensifying, with significant daily losses in oil revenue due to ongoing restrictions, raising concerns about longer-term impacts on the energy sector.

The Strait of Hormuz remains subject to navigation constraints, fueling uncertainty in global markets given its strategic importance for oil transit.

The situation is further complicated by overlapping ceasefire arrangements in the region, increasing the risk of escalation if any agreement collapses.

Analysts say the upcoming talks represent a narrow window for de-escalation, with their outcome likely to shape whether the region moves toward stability or renewed confrontation.