Islamabad Peace Talks LIVE: Amid uncertainty over Iran and the United States’ participation in the next round of talks, Washington has indicated it is moving ahead with plans to send a delegation to Islamabad, even as Tehran’s final decision remains unclear.
According to sources cited by AFP, a US delegation is expected to travel to Pakistan “soon” for negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict that has unsettled the region and impacted global markets. US President Donald Trump also confirmed that the United States would take part, saying Iran was “supposed to be there” and that both sides had agreed in principle to attend.
A White House official said the US delegation would be led by Vice President JD Vance. He is expected to be joined
by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner. Security has already been tightened in Islamabad ahead of the possible high-level visit.
On Iran’s side, there are signs of movement, though participation appears conditional. According to a report by The New York Times, an Iranian delegation is preparing to travel to Islamabad for talks with the United States. The report, citing two senior Iranian officials, said Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is likely to lead the delegation. However, his attendance depends on whether Vice President JD Vance is also present at the talks.
Tensions escalated sharply after the US Navy seized an Iranian cargo vessel near the Strait of Hormuz—an act Iran has condemned as “piracy” and a violation of ceasefire understandings, warning of possible retaliation. The situation is further complicated by Washington’s continued naval blockade of Iranian ports, which Tehran views as overtly hostile. Adding to the unpredictability, Donald Trump has delivered mixed messaging, alternating between expressing optimism about a potential deal and issuing warnings of escalation, including suggesting that a ceasefire may not be renewed.
The planned talks come after earlier discussions in Islamabad failed to produce a breakthrough, with both Washington and Tehran accusing each other of violating the ceasefire terms.
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