India
The long-stalled diplomatic engagement between the United States and Iran may be entering a renewed phase, with reports suggesting that both sides are preparing to send delegations to Islamabad for a fresh round of peace discussions this weekend.
According to CNN, citing US officials, US President Donald Trump is dispatching senior envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan’s capital to participate in the talks. The move signals a renewed attempt by Washington to revive negotiations after earlier discussions failed to deliver a breakthrough.
However, Vice President JD Vance, who previously led a US delegation in the peace process, has reportedly been placed on standby and will only travel if progress is made during the initial discussions.
Iran signals diplomatic outreach through regional tour
On the Iranian side, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to visit Pakistan, Oman, and Russia as part of what Tehran describes as a coordinated diplomatic outreach focused on regional stability and bilateral consultations.
In a post on X, Araghchi confirmed his travel plans, stating that the purpose of his visits is to “closely coordinate with our partners on bilateral matters and consult on regional developments,” adding that “our neighbours are our priority.”
A senior Pakistani government official told PTI that Araghchi is expected to arrive in Islamabad on Friday night with a small delegation. Pakistan, which has played a mediating role in earlier contacts, is expected to host discussions involving both US and Iranian representatives.
Second round of talks expected, but uncertainty remains
Officials in Pakistan have indicated that a second round of US–Iran peace talks could take place in Islamabad following discussions with mediating teams. However, no official confirmation has been given regarding the exact timing or level of engagement.
Iranian media, meanwhile, has pushed back against expectations of direct negotiations, stating that no formal talks are currently scheduled between Tehran and Washington during Araghchi’s visit.
The first round of discussions between the two sides was held on April 11–12 but ended without any significant progress. Despite the lack of agreement, diplomatic efforts have continued behind the scenes.
Ceasefire extension adds urgency to negotiations
The renewed diplomatic activity comes shortly after President Trump reportedly extended a ceasefire arrangement with Iran indefinitely, aiming to allow more time for Tehran to present a unified proposal to end ongoing tensions.
While the extension has temporarily reduced immediate escalation risks, the absence of a breakthrough has kept the situation fragile, with international observers closely watching whether the Islamabad talks can produce meaningful progress.
As both sides prepare for potential engagement, the coming days are expected to be critical in determining whether diplomacy can gain momentum or whether the deadlock will persist.
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