New Delhi: US Vice President JD Vance is expected to travel to Islamabad on Tuesday for crucial talks with Iran, as the ceasefire between Washington and
Tehran approaches its deadline on Wednesday.
Vance to visit Islamabad on Tuesday
Vance’s delegation is expected to include senior officials such as special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.
The ceasefire, which has been in place for two weeks, is set to expire soon, with US President Donald Trump warning that Washington could start bombing Iranian infrastructure again if no deal is reached.
Negotiations between the US and Iran faced delays as Tehran initially hesitated to confirm participation. Iranian negotiators were reportedly under pressure from the Revolutionary Guards to adopt a firm position, insisting that talks cannot proceed unless the US lifts its naval blockade.
US-Iran talks round 2 – What to expect?
After a failed round 1 of the Iran-US talks, the second round of negotiations is aimed at easing tensions and potentially laying the groundwork for a comprehensive agreement. However, a final deal within the limited timeframe appears unlikely.
As tensions between the US and Iran remain high, several key issues are expected to be discussed in round two negotiations.
Strait of Hormuz
One major flashpoint is the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route connecting the Gulf to the Arabian Sea. Before the conflict, nearly one-fifth of global oil and LNG supplies passed through it. Iran claims control over the strait, saying only “non-hostile” vessels should be allowed through and even suggesting tolls. The US, however, insists on unrestricted navigation.
Soon after the war began, Iran shut down the route by restricting transit and targeting ships, leading to a sharp drop in maritime traffic. In response, the US imposed its own blockade on Iranian ports, further complicating negotiations. Although Iran briefly reopened the strait, it reversed the move due to the US blockade.
Nuclear programme concerns
Another major issue is Iran’s nuclear programme. The US and Israel accuse Tehran of enriching uranium for weapons, while Iran maintains that its programme is purely civilian. Under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, Iran had agreed to limit enrichment and allow inspections. However, the US withdrew from the deal in 2018, increasing distrust between the two sides.
Lebanon conflict tensions
The situation in Lebanon has also added strain. Iran has linked its ceasefire with the US to a halt in hostilities involving its ally Hezbollah. Despite a temporary truce between Israel and Hezbollah, clashes have continued, keeping the region on edge and complicating broader peace efforts.
The outcome of the Islamabad talks is being closely watched worldwide, particularly due to disruptions in oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route that carries a significant share of global energy supplies.
