Washington and Tehran are reportedly gearing up for another round of high-stakes negotiations this Thursday, with possible venues in Geneva or Pakistan, according to fresh reports amid the ongoing US-Iran war tensions. This follows a grueling 21-hour session in Islamabad that ended without agreement, as both sides clashed over Iran's nuclear program and control of the Strait of Hormuz. The fragile two-week ceasefire hangs in the balance, with US Vice President JD Vance warning that failure hurts Iran most under tightening sanctions and naval blockades.

Hosted by Pakistan, the recent direct talks— the highest-level since 1979—saw Iran dismiss US demands as unreasonable. Iranian parliament speaker Bagher Ghalibaf accused Washington of lacking trust-building measures, while VP Vance shot back that Tehran's inflexibility risks escalation. Pakistan's defense minister Khawaja Asif suggested swift follow-ups, positioning Islamabad as a key neutral ground. President Donald Trump hinted at backchannel progress, stating "the right people" from Iran have engaged, despite public posturing. Earlier February talks in Geneva similarly stalled on uranium enrichment and sanctions relief, underscoring persistent divides.

Reports from sources like the Associated Press point to Thursday's meeting in either Geneva, a diplomatic staple for nuclear discussions, or Pakistan for regional access. Iran's ambassador to India emphasized openness to lawful talks but readiness for military response if needed. Mediators like Oman could play a role as the ceasefire deadline looms.

Stalemate threatens the Strait of Hormuz, vital for 20% of world oil, potentially surging prices like the 20% Brent crude spike during 2019-2020 flare-ups. Iran's sanction-hit economy faces collapse, pressuring Supreme Leader Khamenei amid protests, while a deal could ease Israel's regional burdens. History from the 2015 nuclear accord shows these marathons demand patience, but time is short.