On April 23, according to The New York Times, on Wednesday, Pakistani officials remained optimistic, believing there is still a possibility to bring the U.S.-Iran back to the negotiating table, despite Iran’s seizure of two cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz setting a new obstacle to their efforts to mediate long-term peace. Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif met with the Iranian ambassador on Wednesday.

A Pakistani official who attended a briefing on the talks said a second round of negotiations could take place in the coming days. Maleka Lodi, former Pakistani ambassador to the U.S. and the UK who is familiar with the current diplomatic efforts, stated: "The ceasefire has created space for the resumption of diplomatic channels, and Pakistan believes this space is sufficient. Neither side has rejected negotiations."

Another Pakistani official who attended a briefing on the negotiations and requested anonymity said that after the ceasefire was extended, Pakistani mediators had received positive signals from Iran, hoping to restart face-to-face talks. The official did not specify what these signals were, nor did he say whether Iran told Pakistani mediators that the U.S. lifting its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is a prerequisite for participating in the second round of talks. #Gate13周年现场直击