The US and Iran are reportedly negotiating indirectly, with Pakistan serving as an intermediary. This is the second time President Donald Trump has revised his timeline for negotiations. He initially threatened to "obliterate" Iranian power plants if the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway controlled by Iran, wasn't reopened within 48 hours. However, he subsequently extended that deadline for five days to allow for ongoing talks. There are still serious obstacles to a quick end to the war, including Iran's partial blockade of the strait which has driven up oil prices and threatens to damage the global economy. The US is also sending more troops to the region, raising speculation about a possible ground invasion.