A second round of U.S.-Iran negotiations is expected this weekend, according to sources familiar with the matter. Pakistan continues to mediate between the two sides after brokering the original April 8 two-week ceasefire.
President Trump said Thursday that U.S. forces could withdraw from the region within the next two to three weeks if a full peace agreement is reached. Trump has maintained the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports will remain until a deal is signed.
Iran's core demand remains the lifting of sanctions and security guarantees against future U.S.-Israeli attacks. The U.S. side has focused on Iran's nuclear program, missile capabilities, and support for regional militant groups.
The current ceasefire expires April 22. Both sides have publicly expressed willingness to extend. Iran's reopening of the Strait of Hormuz on April 17 was widely read as a gesture of good faith ahead of the weekend talks.