White House denies U.S. request for ceasefire and says that new talks could happen in Pakistan

Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Wednesday that reports that the White House had requested a "ceasefire" in the Iran War were false. However, she added that talks about a second-round of negotiations with the Iranians are ongoing and productive.

Leavitt, speaking at a White House Press Briefing, said that any new talks would be likely to take place?again in Pakistan as it is the "only mediator" for the effort to end the U.S. and Israeli war against Iran.

"These conversations are productive and ongoing. That's where we're at right now." There have also been some reports about the possibility of in-person talks. Leavitt added that "these discussions are taking place, but nothing will be official until we announce it here at the White House."

The talks broke down last weekend 'without agreement to end war, which was started by President Donald Trump alongside Israel on 28th February. This triggered Iranian attacks against Iran's Gulf neighboring countries and re-ignited a conflict between Israel and Iran backed Hezbollah.

Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for shipments of crude oil and natural gas, to all ships except its own. This has resulted in a sharp reduction of exports from the Gulf to Asia and Europe. Energy importers are now scrambling to find alternative sources of energy.

(source: Reuters)