Negotiating teams from the United States and Iran are likely to return to Islamabad later this week for a second round of high-level talks, according to multiple sources, following an inconclusive first meeting aimed at resolving the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Officials familiar with the process say both sides are keeping the window between Friday and Sunday open, although no final date has yet been confirmed. The development signals continued diplomatic momentum after the initial talks failed to produce a formal agreement.
Pakistan Continues Mediation Efforts
Pakistan remains actively engaged in facilitating dialogue between Washington and Tehran. Sources indicate that Islamabad has reached out to both sides, receiving a positive response from Iran regarding participation in another round of talks.
The mediation effort is being closely coordinated by Pakistani authorities, who are working to finalise the timing and logistics of the next week. Officials believe the follow-up talks could take place over the coming weekend.
First Talks Marked Historic Engagement
The first round of negotiations, held in Islamabad, marked a rare and significant moment in US-Iran relations. It was the first direct engagement between senior officials from both countries in more than a decade, and the highest-level contact since the Iranian Revolution.
The discussions, which lasted nearly 21 hours, were described as intensive and focused on critical issues including Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions, regional security, and the strategic Strait of Hormuz — a vital route for global energy supplies.
Key Differences Still Remain
Despite extensive dialogue, major disagreements persist between the two sides:
The United States has proposed a 15-point framework addressing nuclear restrictions, missile controls, sanctions relief, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has presented a 10-point plan seeking broader sanctions removal and greater control over key waterways.
Pakistan Pushes for Fresh US-Iran Talks Before Ceasefire Deadline
US Vice President JD Vance, who led the American delegation, said Washington had presented its “final and best offer” and was awaiting Iran’s response.
Background: Conflict and Ceasefire
The talks come in the backdrop of a conflict that began on February 28 following coordinated US-Israeli strikes on Iranian targets. The escalation led to retaliatory actions by Tehran, including disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on regional interests.
A ceasefire announced on April 8 — facilitated in part by Pakistan — has temporarily halted hostilities, but remains fragile amid unresolved disputes.
Global Support for Pakistan’s Role
The international community has broadly welcomed Pakistan’s diplomatic role in bringing both sides to the table. The Islamabad talks are being viewed as an important step toward de-escalation and a potential long-term settlement.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to visit key regional countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye, as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to support the peace process.
While a breakthrough remains elusive, the expected return of US and Iranian delegations to Islamabad suggests that dialogue is far from over. With the ceasefire timeline narrowing, the upcoming round of talks could prove critical in determining whether diplomacy can prevent a renewed escalation in the region.
