ISLAMABAD / WASHINGTON / TEHRAN – In a monumental diplomatic shift facilitated by Pakistan, the United States and Iran held direct, high-level face-to-face negotiations in Islamabad on Saturday. This marking the first contact of such magnitude between the two nations in nearly half a century.
The White House confirmed the trilaterial sit-down, which saw high-ranking officials from both sides abandon the traditional “shuttle diplomacy” of separate rooms for a direct seat at the negotiating table.
High-Stakes Table Talk
The American delegation—led by Vice President JD Vance, alongside Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner—engaged in two and a half hours of intensive discussions with the Iranian delegation, headed by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Notably, Pakistan’s Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir was present during the talks, highlighting Pakistan’s pivotal role as the primary mediator. Sources describe the atmosphere as “positive,” with technical experts from both nations supporting the senior leadership in the wings.
Positive Momentum and Tangible Progress
Diplomatic sources report that the negotiations have already yielded encouraging signs:
Draft Exchanges: British media reports indicate that US and Iranian experts have begun exchanging written drafts.
De-escalation: In a major show of de-escalation, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the commencement of mine-clearing operations in the Strait of Hormuz. On Saturday, three large oil tankers were observed passing through the vital waterway without incident.
Stay Extension: Both delegations have extended their stay in Islamabad to continue talks through Sunday, with a final outcome expected by the end of the day.
Pakistan’s Role as a Bridge
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held separate meetings with the US and Iranian delegations before the joint session, welcoming their commitment to constructive dialogue.
“The positive attitude of both parties is a milestone for regional peace,” PM Sharif stated. “Pakistan remains committed to facilitating both sides to ensure lasting stability in the region.”
Global Support
The “Islamabad Talks” have garnered significant international attention:
United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the talks, urging both sides to seize this “golden opportunity.”
France: President Emmanuel Macron held a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, urging him to capitalize on the Islamabad negotiations to achieve a “permanent reduction in tension.”
As the delegations enter the second day of formal negotiations today, the world watches Islamabad. What began as a six-week effort to end regional hostilities has now reached a critical threshold, with insiders optimistic that a definitive agreement could be reached within the next 24 hours.