Amid continuing uncertainty over participation in the next round of negotiations, the United States has indicated it will proceed with plans to send a high-level delegation to Islamabad, even as Iran has yet to take a final decision.
According to sources cited by AFP, a US delegation is expected to travel to Pakistan “soon” for talks aimed at de-escalating a conflict that has unsettled the region and impacted global markets. US President Donald Trump confirmed Washington’s participation, stating that Iran was “supposed to be there” and that both sides had agreed in principle to attend.
US Delegation and Security Preparations
A White House official said the US team would be led by Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner. Security arrangements in Islamabad have already been heightened in anticipation of the high-level visit.
Iran Signals Conditional Participation
On Iran’s side, there are indications of possible engagement, though participation appears contingent on specific conditions. A report by The New York Times, citing senior Iranian officials, suggested that a delegation may travel to Islamabad, likely led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
However, his attendance is reportedly dependent on the presence of Vice President Vance at the talks, underscoring the delicate and conditional nature of the diplomatic engagement.
Rising Tensions Complicate Diplomacy
The diplomatic effort is unfolding against a backdrop of escalating tensions. The US Navy’s recent seizure of an Iranian cargo vessel near the Strait of Hormuz has further strained relations, with Tehran condemning the move as “piracy” and a violation of ceasefire understandings, while warning of possible retaliation.
Compounding the situation is Washington’s continued naval blockade of Iranian ports, which Iran views as a hostile act undermining trust.
Mixed Signals from Washington
President Trump’s public messaging has added to the uncertainty, alternating between expressions of optimism about a potential agreement and warnings of renewed escalation. He has also suggested that the current ceasefire may not be extended.
Previous Talks Yielded No Breakthrough
The upcoming discussions follow earlier rounds of talks in Islamabad that failed to produce a breakthrough, with both Washington and Tehran accusing each other of breaching ceasefire commitments.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the outcome of the proposed talks remains uncertain, with both sides balancing engagement against persistent mistrust and the risk of further escalation.
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