While the negotiations aim to prevent further escalation, major disagreements remain on key issues like sanctions, nuclear activity and control of the Strait of Hormuz, making the outcome uncertain
-1775815705530_d.png "Pakistan to host US-Iran talks amid escalating tensions: All you need to know")
Pakistani Rangers stand guard near the expected venue of the US-Iran talks in the Red Zone area of Islamabad. PIC/AFP
The United States and Iran are holding their highest-level talks in years in Islamabad, in an effort to turn a fragile two-week ceasefire into a lasting peace agreement. The discussions, brokered by Pakistan, come after weeks of intense conflict that disrupted global energy markets and raised fears of a wider regional crisis.
The ceasefire, agreed on April 8, is set to expire on April 22, making these negotiations crucial for preventing further escalation. Here is all you need to know about the discussion held in Islamabad.
The cause of these talks held in Islamabad: The War
The talks follow a deadly conflict that began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran. The attacks reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and targeted key military and nuclear facilities, leaving more than 2,000 people dead over five weeks.
Iran’s response had global consequences. By effectively shutting down the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically vital route for nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil and gas, the country triggered a surge in energy prices and disrupted international trade.
Amid rising tensions, a breakthrough came on April 8 when both sides agreed to a two-week ceasefire, mediated by Pakistan. But with the truce set to expire on April 22 and problems with Israel's deadly attacks on Lebanon, the pressure to reach a longer-term solution and discuss the policies is mounting.
How did Pakistan come in the picture as a mediator, moreover a peacemaker?
Pakistan’s role in hosting and mediating these talks has drawn global attention. The country usually known for military problems, bad economy and terrorism aka not usually known for hosting such high-level negotiations, has positioned itself as a key diplomatic bridge.
Its unique relationships have played a role in this effort. At the same time, Islamabad has built strong ties with the United States, Saudi Arabia and China, giving it a unique diplomatic position.
In late March, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visited Beijing, where China backed Pakistan’s mediation efforts as being “in keeping with the common interests of all parties.” Former US President Donald Trump also said China helped bring Iran to the negotiating table. A Pakistani official noted, “On ceasefire night, hopes were fading, but China stepped in and convinced Iran to agree to a preliminary ceasefire,” reported AFP.
This combination of access and influence has allowed Pakistan to act as a bridge between two long-time adversaries.
What is the major agenda of these talks now?
Despite the talks, significant disagreements persist between the two sides.
The United States has proposed a 15-point plan focusing on limiting Iran’s nuclear programme, controlling ballistic missiles, reopening the Strait of Hormuz and easing sanctions.
Iran, however, has presented its own 10-point plan, demanding control over the strait, imposing tolls on passing vessels, ending regional military operations and lifting all sanctions.
Tensions have also been heightened by continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian criticised these actions, saying they made the negotiations “meaningless” and warning, “Our hands remain on the trigger.”
Israel continued its strikes in the country targeting Hezbollah after the ceasefire came into force with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejecting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's assertion that the truce included Lebanon. US Vice President JD Vance appeared to take a softer tone, saying there may have been a "legitimate misunderstanding" from Iran that Lebanon would be included.
Key figures who will be at the table
The talks are being led by top officials from both sides. US Vice President JD Vance is heading the American delegation, joined by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
On the Iranian side, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf are leading the discussions. This marks the highest-level engagement between Washington and Tehran since the 2015 nuclear deal negotiations, highlighting the seriousness of the current crisis, reported the news agency.
Islamabad under tight security
As diplomacy unfolds, Islamabad has been turned into a high-security zone.
Authorities have not officially disclosed the venue, but strict measures are in place across the capital. The Serena Hotel in the Red Zone was cleared of guests, and a sudden two-day public holiday was announced to minimise movement.
The talks themselves are expected to be indirect. US and Iranian officials are likely seated in separate rooms, with Pakistani mediators carrying proposals back and forth, mirroring earlier negotiation formats.
Outside, the city remains tense but quiet, with heavy security deployments and restricted movement.
Could this actually shape the future making Pakistan the world hero for peace?
With the ceasefire deadline approaching, the Islamabad talks represent a critical turning point. Success could stabilise not just US-Iran relations but also global energy markets and regional security, also etching Pakistan's name in the books for playing a key role as a peace-maker!
Failure, however, risks plunging the region back into conflict with far reaching global consequences.
(With AFP Inputs)
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