US-Iran Negotiations Continue as Strike Pause Window Enters Final Days

As of March 26, 2026, US-Iran negotiations via intermediaries continue within Trump's self-imposed five-day pause on strikes against Iranian power plants announced March 23. The 15-point peace plan delivered through Pakistan remains under review. Vance, Rubio, Witkoff, and Kushner are all reportedly engaged in the diplomatic effort. Global energy markets remain volatile as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to normal traffic. IEA head Fatih Birol warned the situation is worse than the 1973 and 1979 oil crises combined, with over 40 energy facilities across nine countries severely damaged in the conflict.