NPR News: 04-24-2026 10PM EDT

US negotiators are heading to Pakistan for potential talks with Iran amid an extended ceasefire in the US-involved conflict, while both sides maintain a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz; the episode also covers a Jones Act waiver to ease domestic fuel shipping, FDA acceleration of psychedelics reviews for mental health, a court blocking Trump's asylum restrictions, rising worship attendance, and record stock market closes.

US-Iran Talks and Strait of Hormuz Blockade

The White House announced that US negotiators, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, will travel to Islamabad, Pakistan, this weekend for in-person discussions with Iran. This follows President Trump's decision to extend a ceasefire in what the report describes as the "U.S. Israeli war," showing flexibility to keep negotiations alive. Iran has expressed interest in direct talks, but Tehran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is already in Islamabad for separate meetings with Russia, Oman, and Pakistani officials. A ministry spokesperson denied any planned US-Iran meetings on X. Both nations continue blockading the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of global oil passes, contributing to worldwide supply disruptions. These developments highlight ongoing tensions but also diplomatic momentum, as the US pushes for engagement despite conflicting public statements.