ISLAMABAD: US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Islamabad on Saturday to take part in crucial, high-stakes negotiations with Iran, as efforts intensify to turn a fragile ceasefire into a lasting peace agreement.
The talks, being hosted by Pakistan, are being described as “make-or-break” amid ongoing tensions in the region.Vance is leading a senior United States delegation that includes key officials such as special envoy Steve Witkoff and other top representatives.
The visit marks one of the most significant diplomatic engagements between Washington and Tehran since the recent conflict began over a month ago. An Iranian delegation, headed by parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, has also arrived in Islamabad ahead of the negotiations.
However, Tehran has made it clear that formal talks will only begin if certain preconditions are met, including a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of its frozen assets. The negotiations are taking place during a temporary two-week truce that paused hostilities following intense fighting triggered by US-led strikes on Iran earlier this year.
The discussions are expected to focus on key issues such as reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and broader regional stability. Security has been tightened across Islamabad, with strict measures in place to ensure the safety of visiting delegations.
Pakistani authorities have termed hosting the talks an important diplomatic opportunity, positioning the country as a key mediator in efforts to de-escalate the crisis. Despite cautious optimism, significant challenges remain, with deep divisions between the two sides and ongoing regional tensions casting uncertainty over the outcome of the talks.