Iranian Delegation Lands in Islamabad Ahead of US-Mediated Talks as Ceasefire Talks Loom

An Iranian delegation arrived in Islamabad for Washington-brokered talks with the US as Israel and Lebanon prepare to discuss a ceasefire in Washington next week. Pakistan is mediating between Tehran and Washington, with US Vice-President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner heading to participate. Iran’s preconditions—an immediate Lebanon ceasefire and the unfreezing of billions of dollars in assets—highlight the core sticking points, including Iran’s nuclear program and its leverage over the Strait of Hormuz, making a breakthrough in Islamabad unlikely and signaling more rounds of negotiations to come.