US and Iran in indirect talks to extend two-week ceasefire

White House feels ‘good about the prospects of a deal’ as Pakistani officials launch new round of diplomacy

The US and Iran have been in indirect talks aimed at extending the two-week ceasefire beyond its expiry on 22 April, as Pakistan’s army chief arrived in Tehran to continue mediation efforts.

Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, denied on Wednesday that the US had “formally” requested to extend the two-week ceasefire but added that Washington remained “very much engaged in these negotiations”.

A second round of negotiations would “very likely” be held in Islamabad, she said, adding that the White House feels “good about the prospects of a deal” only days after negotiations to reach a peace agreement failed.

“Nothing is official until you hear it from us here at the White House,” she added.