Pakistan prepares for US-Iran talks, but Tehran yet to confirm participation
The proposed talks come as a two-week ceasefire between the two sides is set to expire on Wednesday
Pakistan is preparing to host a second round of talks between the United States and Iran aimed at ending their ongoing conflict, but uncertainty remains as Tehran has not yet confirmed whether it will join the negotiations.
The proposed talks come as a two-week ceasefire between the two sides is set to expire on Wednesday. Unlike the first round held in Islamabad on April 11, the upcoming discussions could continue for several days, with mediators hoping to reach a temporary agreement to extend the ceasefire and allow more time for a broader peace deal.
However, rising tensions over the past 24 hours have cast doubt on Iran's participation.
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US President Donald Trump said American representatives were heading to Pakistan for the talks, but also warned of possible strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure if no agreement is reached. He accused Iran of violating the ceasefire following recent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz.
In a separate development, Trump said a US naval vessel intercepted an Iranian cargo ship in the Gulf of Oman after it failed to respond to warnings. Iran has condemned the move, calling it piracy.
Amid these developments, Pakistan has stepped up security and logistical preparations in Islamabad. Key hotels were cleared of guests, roads leading to the high-security Red Zone were sealed, and additional security personnel were deployed across the capital.
Despite Pakistan's efforts as a mediator, Iranian officials have expressed reservations about joining the talks. Iran's ambassador to Pakistan cited ongoing tensions, including the US naval blockade and threats of further attacks, as obstacles to meaningful negotiations.
Iranian state media also dismissed reports of a confirmed second round of talks, blaming the lack of progress on what it described as shifting US positions and unrealistic demands.
Meanwhile, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, discussing the need to continue dialogue to resolve the crisis.
US officials, including Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner, are expected to be part of the delegation, although it remains unclear who will ultimately attend.
Diplomatic sources say the immediate goal of the talks would be to extend the ceasefire rather than reach a final agreement. Officials noted that while progress has been made, a comprehensive deal would require more time and continued engagement from both sides.
