ISLAMABAD — The United States and Iran launched high-level direct negotiations in Pakistan on Saturday, marking a rare diplomatic breakthrough as both nations seek to stabilize a fragile two-week ceasefire following over a month of conflict that has claimed thousands of lives and shaken global markets.

The talks, held in Islamabad, are led by U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, with facilitation from Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The White House confirmed that the negotiations are being conducted face-to-face — an exceptional development given the lack of direct diplomatic engagement since the Iranian Revolution. Discussions extended late into the night with no immediate indication of a breakthrough.

Significant obstacles remain. Ongoing clashes between Israel and Hezbollah along the southern Lebanon border continue to threaten the ceasefire. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel’s campaign against Tehran “is not over,” underscoring regional tensions.

Meanwhile, the U.S. military reported that two naval destroyers entered the strategic Strait of Hormuz to conduct mine-clearing operations — potentially the first such move since the conflict began. Iranian state media disputed the claim, highlighting persistent mistrust.

In a related development, Qatar announced it will fully restore maritime navigation in the Persian Gulf starting Sunday, aiming to stabilize one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.

The outcome of these talks will be crucial in determining whether Washington and Tehran can move toward a broader agreement to end the conflict and restore regional stability.