What’s Happening in Islamabad? Iran and US Engage in Talks Mediated by Pakistan

Iran-US Talks Kick Off in Islamabad

Islamabad/Lahore: Official sources have confirmed that discussions mediated by Pakistan between Iran and the United States began in Islamabad on Saturday.

The initial phase of the talks involved indirect communication through Pakistani representatives, as per the sources.

Should the discussions yield positive outcomes, direct negotiations may follow. The Iranian delegation, led by Speaker Mohammad Baqir Galibaf, arrived in Islamabad on Friday night, while the US team, headed by Vice President JD Vance, landed on Saturday morning.

A senior official from Pakistan indicated that the Foreign Office is expected to release a statement after the first round of 'direct talks' concludes.

The US delegation includes Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former President Donald Trump, and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, while Iran's team features Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and other high-ranking officials.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met separately with both delegations, emphasizing Pakistan's commitment to fostering 'durable peace' in West Asia and facilitating dialogue.

Key figures present during these meetings included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi.

The Prime Minister's Office released images showing Sharif warmly embracing Ghalibaf and Araghchi.

Iranian media has reported that these discussions are seen as a move towards establishing a ceasefire.

These talks are occurring amid a two-week pause in the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, which escalated following attacks on February 28 and affected economies worldwide.

This temporary ceasefire was facilitated by Pakistan on April 8.