Diplomats are working through back channels to arrange more talks between the United States and Iran. As Washington blockaded Iranian ports, Tehran threatened to retaliate by striking targets across the region. Though last week’s ceasefire appeared to hold, the showdown over the Strait of Hormuz risked reigniting hostilities. Talks last weekend aimed at permanently ending the conflict in Iran failed to produce an agreement. Pakistan has proposed hosting a second round in the coming days. In Washington, direct talks between Israel and Lebanon concluded Tuesday. The U.S. State Department said they were “productive.” They were the first such negotiations in decades.