Negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad have reportedly reached a stalemate due to disagreements over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that supplies one-fifth of the world's energy needs. Iran insists on retaining control over the strait and imposing tolls on vessels, rejecting proposals for joint control. High-level discussions involved US Vice President JD Vance, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and other officials, focusing on reopening the strait and extending a ceasefire to Lebanon. The strait has been closed since US-Israeli strikes on Iran in February, leading to soaring global oil prices and significant regional instability. The US seeks to ensure free passage and curb Iran's nuclear program, while Iranian officials demand war reparations and a ceasefire across the region. Tensions escalated recently as two US Navy warships transited the strait, marking a significant military operation to clear mines reportedly laid by Iran, with President Donald Trump asserting that Iran's military capabilities have been severely diminished.