United News of Bangladesh

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to arrive in Islamabad on Friday night with a small delegation in a move seen as a step towards the possible resumption of direct US-Iran talks aimed at easing escalating tensions. Senior officials in Islamabad confirmed the development to international media following a series of phone calls between Araghchi and Pakistani leaders on Friday, reports Al Jazeera. However, Iran’s state news agency IRNA said the visit is primarily bilateral and focused on talks with Pakistani officials, not direct negotiations with the United States. After his Islamabad visit, Araghchi is expected to travel to Moscow and Muscat. A Pakistani official said there was a “high likelihood of a breakthrough” in efforts to restart stalled US-Iran dialogue, despite rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and recent naval confrontations. The development comes after earlier expectations that a US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance would travel to Islamabad for talks. However, Iran reportedly refused to return to negotiations, citing a naval blockade imposed by US President Donald Trump on April 13. Since then, both sides have exchanged maritime actions in the Strait of Hormuz, further complicating diplomatic efforts, while talks have remained uncertain. Araghchi held separate phone conversations on Friday with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as well as Pakistan’s military leadership, according to media reports. Pakistan has been playing a mediating role in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Tehran, with officials saying the US remains prepared for renewed talks despite delays. The proposed discussions involve key issues including Iran’s nuclear programme, US sanctions, and the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, heightened security measures and repeated road closures in Islamabad have disrupted daily life, as the capital hosts diplomatic activity linked to the stalled negotiations. Residents have reported repeated interruptions to court services, education, transport and business activities due to security restrictions linked to the high-level diplomatic engagements. Pakistan’s role as a mediator comes amid its own economic challenges, including IMF-backed reforms, rising fuel prices and power shortages. Despite uncertainty, officials and observers say diplomatic efforts continue behind the scenes, though a firm date for renewed US-Iran talks has not yet been confirmed.

Pakistani authorities have begun tightening security in the capital, Islamabad, ahead of a possible second round of ceasefire talks between the U.S. and Iran. Authorities on Sunday deployed troops at roadside checkpoints, closed tourist sites and ordered major hotels to cancel bookings and keep facilities available. Islamabad’s streets are largely deserted, as residents stayed home to avoid road closures seen earlier this month during the first round of talks. While there were no formal announcements, Pakistani officials said arrangements are in place for talks in the coming days. A regional official involved in the mediation efforts said mediators were finalizing the preparations. He said U.S. advance security teams are already on the ground. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the preparations. Pakistan has led mediation efforts to end the war. Its military chief visited Tehran last week, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with regional leaders in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey.