An Iranian team led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently visited Islamabad for talks with Pakistani officials. This visit has disrupted plans for a second round of peace talks with the U.S., as a separate U.S. delegation is also set to arrive in Pakistan.
Araghchi arrived late Friday night, but the Iranian delegation emphasized that their discussions were focused on bilateral and regional issues instead of negotiating directly with U.S. representatives.
Upon arrival, Iranian officials reiterated that no direct meetings with the U.S. were organized during this trip.
During their stay, the Iranian delegation engaged in several discussions with Pakistani leaders, such as Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. The Pakistani foreign ministry noted Araghchi’s appreciation for Pakistan’s continuous support leading up to this visit.
After their meetings, Araghchi departed on Saturday morning. Meanwhile, the U.S. delegation remains set to visit Islamabad, with White House officials stating that special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner will attend discussions.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed hope for progress during these talks, stating, “We hope that positive developments will come from this meeting.”
This situation follows the initial round of U.S.-Iran talks held in Islamabad on April 11, which ended without an agreement.
The Iranian visit has been presented as part of a larger regional initiative, with future stops planned in Oman and Russia. Pakistani officials are hopeful for mediation success, with one stating there might be a “high likelihood of a breakthrough” between the U.S. and Iran.
The discussions facilitated by Pakistan aim to establish and maintain a ceasefire in the ongoing U.S.-Iran tensions, which President Trump recently extended indefinitely. Key topics include Iran’s nuclear ambitions, potential U.S. sanctions relief, and ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a route that has faced disruptions since hostilities escalated on February 28.
