Pakistan, April 13 -- In the wake of 21 hours of direct peace talks in Islamabad, the Damoclean sword over the Middle East hangs ever lower. US Vice President JD Vance stood before journalists in the wee hours of Sunday and noted that Washington had presented its final and best offer, but Tehran had refused to accept core terms, including a long-term commitment against nuclear weapons.

Nevertheless, Iranian negotiators said trust had yet to be earned and accused the US of overreach, pressing demands ranging from sanctions relief to control over the Strait of Hormuz and war reparations.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump claimed there had still been movement on most points even as he signalled fresh pressure by ordering a naval blockad...