Iran delegation reaches Islamabad, sets conditions for US talks
An Iranian delegation led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf arrived in Islamabad on Friday for high-stakes talks with the United States, marking a critical phase in efforts to ease tensions.
Iranian media said negotiations would proceed only if Washington agrees to Tehran’s “preconditions,” underlining a firm stance ahead of the discussions.
High-level delegation, fragile backdrop
The delegation includes key figures such as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, defence council secretary Ali Akbar Ahmadian, central bank governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, and former IRGC commander Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, along with several lawmakers.
The talks, hosted by Pakistan, come amid a fragile ceasefire and deep mistrust between Tehran and Washington.
Iran lays down preconditions
Tehran has made clear that discussions cannot begin without prior assurances, particularly on regional security and economic restrictions.
Iranian officials have also insisted that any ceasefire must extend to Lebanon, where Israel is engaged in conflict with Hezbollah, and include the release of Iranian assets frozen under sanctions.
US team heads to Islamabad
A US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance, along with envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, is also headed to Islamabad for the weekend talks.
Despite the diplomatic push, both sides have accused each other of violating commitments linked to a temporary ceasefire, adding to uncertainty around the outcome.
White House cautious on breakthrough
Officials in Washington have struck a cautious tone, expressing skepticism about a quick breakthrough. Vance said the US was extending an “open hand,” but acknowledged the challenges ahead.
There are also doubts that the talks will immediately lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route at the centre of tensions.
Major gaps remain
Significant differences persist between the two sides. Iran is seeking sweeping sanctions relief and greater control over the Strait of Hormuz, while the US is pushing for limits on Tehran’s nuclear programme, missile capabilities and regional influence.
With both sides holding firm positions, the Islamabad talks are expected to be a crucial test of whether diplomacy can bridge one of the world’s most entrenched geopolitical divides.
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