Can a lasting deal emerge from the Islamabad talks?

"US President Donald Trump is now assessing whether Iran is prepared to unblock the Strait of Hormuz, restore oil flows, and ultimately reach an agreement that he can present as a face-saving victory," writes Iranian-Canadian political analyst Shahir Shahidsaless for Middle East Eye.

"Trump is now the single most important factor in determining whether any durable peace is possible. Forcing Israel to halt its strikes on Lebanon is the key test. If the administration treats this lightly, there is little chance the ceasefire will hold.

"Observers will be watching closely to see whether Trump can restrain Netanyahu as he pursues a settlement with Iran, while Vance urges good-faith negotiations. There is so much at stake for both sides that, despite a bumpy road ahead, a near-miraculous deal could still emerge."

Read more: Can the Iran-US ceasefire produce a lasting deal?