An Iranian delegation has arrived in Pakistan for crucial peace talks with the United States, as tensions in the region remain fragile despite a ceasefire.
Amid an uncertain truce, U.S. Vice President JD Vance traveled to Pakistan to lead negotiations with Iranian officials aimed at ending the conflict permanently. However, ongoing tensions—including clashes between Israel and Hezbollah and Iran’s continued control over the Strait of Hormuz—pose risks to both the ceasefire and the talks.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about the ceasefire’s effectiveness, especially with shipping still restricted in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Kuwait accused Iran and its allies of carrying out drone attacks, though Iran’s Revolutionary Guard denied involvement.
Iran’s delegation, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, reached Islamabad alongside senior officials, including the foreign minister. Pakistan welcomed the group and emphasized its commitment to facilitating a lasting peace agreement. Negotiations are expected to begin once Iran’s preconditions—such as implementing a Lebanon ceasefire and releasing frozen Iranian assets—are met.
Ahead of the talks, Qalibaf shared images honoring children killed in a U.S. airstrike earlier in the conflict, highlighting the human cost of the war. A preliminary U.S. investigation suggested the strike may have been based on outdated intelligence.
At the same time, Israel signaled openness to direct discussions with Lebanon, raising hopes for broader regional de-escalation, although Hezbollah has not commented.
Despite diplomatic efforts, the humanitarian toll remains severe. In Lebanon, over 1,900 people have reportedly been killed and more than a million displaced during weeks of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.
Elsewhere, global concern continues over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil route where ship traffic has dropped sharply since the conflict began. The UK plans to convene international talks next week to address the crisis and ensure safe maritime passage.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the upcoming negotiations as a decisive moment and urged all sides to work toward a sustainable peace, as international leaders expressed support for Pakistan’s mediation role.