US, Iran Seek Further Talks as Hormuz Standoff Intensifies

The US and Iran are working toward extending a ceasefire and restarting negotiations about a longer-term peace deal, even as a standoff intensifies over the Strait of Hormuz.

The two sides have an “in principle agreement” to pursue further diplomacy after an inconclusive initial round of talks in Pakistan at the weekend, the Associated Press reported, citing regional officials it didn’t identify. Mediators are pushing for a compromise on outstanding issues including Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear program before the April 7 truce expires next week, the news agency said.