US Vice President JD Vance heads delegation to Islamabad for high‑stakes talks aimed at permanently reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran agrees to unfreeze assets in Qatar and other banks, linking release to safe passage through the Strait, valued at billions.
Conflict has shut the Strait, removed 15% of global oil supply and cost the Pentagon $25‑$35 billion so far.
US awarded $4.7 billion Lockheed Martin contract for Patriot interceptors as it bolsters regional defenses amid negotiations.