The United States and Iran have had a tumultuous relationship since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which was marked by the hostage crisis at the US embassy in Tehran. Following decades of conflict, including the US's designation of Iran as part of an 'axis of evil' and the withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal, both nations are now engaging in peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan. These discussions come after a fragile ceasefire was brokered, allowing for negotiations amid ongoing tensions. The ceasefire is critical, as it is set to expire on April 22, 2026, unless an agreement is reached. The talks are led by US Vice President JD Vance and Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who both express significant mutual distrust. The historical context of their enmity includes military actions, such as the killing of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani in 2020 and recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites in 2025. As the two nations navigate this complex relationship, the outcome of the talks could have significant implications for regional stability and global oil markets.