Global

The Pakistani capital, Islamabad, is preparing to host the second round of US-Iran talks, despite harsh statements and actions coming out from  both Washington and Tehran. Logistical and security arrangements are being out in place, amId hopes that the two sides may meet before Friday. Pressure is building up for the conflict, started by the US and Israeli attack on Iran on  28 February, to be brought to a swift end. Many countries are suffering as a result of the economic consequences, caused by the disruption of energy supplies, and the closure of the Straits of Hormuz. Foremost are the six countries of the Gulf Co-operation Council, whose economies are dependent on their energy exports. The Iranians say they are targeting any shipping trying to get through the Strait of Hormuz, while the Americans are imposing their naval blockade on all Iran’s Gulf ports. In normal times you have about 140 ships passing both ways through the Strait to collect oil, gas, fertiliser and other products. But only a trickle of ships has been getting through since the conflict started. Iran is insisting all maritime traffic goes up a new route set by them to be inspected by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy and in some cases pay a toll.