Iran Retains Nuclear Leverage After US-Israeli Strikes, Say Officials
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Apr 11
Iran Retains Nuclear Leverage After US-Israeli Strikes, Say Officials
6 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Apr 11
Iran has retained most of its nuclear capabilities despite weeks of US and Israeli airstrikes, according to officials and former US envoys.
Tehran’s ability to close the Strait of Hormuz and its surviving nuclear infrastructure have given it new leverage in negotiations with Washington.
Diplomats say the conflict has complicated prospects for a comprehensive deal, potentially empowering Iran in future talks and regional dynamics.
With Iran controlling a key oil route, who truly holds the leverage in the upcoming peace talks?
How will the assassination of a supreme leader reshape Iran's long-term nuclear ambitions?
Will the religious ideology of top US officials complicate the path to a pragmatic peace deal?
Can a new nuclear deal be trusted when international inspectors have lost years of monitoring data?
Is a 'joint venture' for the Strait of Hormuz a viable solution or a dangerous concession?
Could Pakistan's role as mediator signal a major shift in regional power dynamics?
Fragile Ceasefire and Escalating Risks: The 2026 US-Iran Conflict and Islamabad Negotiations
Overview
In April 2026, Pakistan brokered a fragile two-week ceasefire between the US-Israel alliance and Iran, halting intense airstrikes and retaliations. The agreement required the US to stop strikes and Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, imposing transit fees to fund reconstruction. Despite this pause, deep mistrust persisted, especially as Israel excluded its conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon from the ceasefire, undermining Pakistan's mediation. Iran’s nuclear program, though damaged, remains resilient with protected uranium stockpiles hidden underground, raising serious escalation risks. Meanwhile, Iran leverages control of the Strait and its proxy militias to maintain regional influence, complicating negotiations that face major deal-breakers and threaten a return to conflict.