Islamabad Negotiations at Stake: Trump Brandishes Force While Tehran Links Participation to Ending Naval Blockade

 Intense anticipation prevails in Islamabad as it prepares to host a second round of talks between Washington and Tehran to end the weeks-long war. Despite President Trump's optimism about reaching a "grand bargain," his refusal to extend the ceasefire scheduled to end Wednesday, along with military leaders' statements on combat readiness, has complicated the scene. Reports indicate that Tehran links its decision to participate to the seizure of an Iranian vessel and the lifting of the blockade, making the coming hours decisive for regional stability in 2026.