Iran, U.S. set conditions for planned talks as tensions persist

Iran will take part in talks with the United States in Islamabad on April 10 only if a ceasefire is reached in Lebanon, the The Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian warned that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps would respond if attacks on Lebanon continue.

“We strongly warn America … and its Zionist partner: if aggression against Lebanon does not stop immediately, we will fulfil our duty and deliver a painful response to aggressors in the region,” he said.

The White House said U.S. President Donald Trump would engage in talks only if navigation in the Strait of Hormuz remains unrestricted.

White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Trump and his team would focus on negotiations over the next two weeks provided the waterway stays open without delays.

She added that Iran had committed to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and that the United States would monitor the situation “in real time.”

N.Tebrizli