US-Iran ceasefire: J.D. Vance arrives in Islamabad to lead talks as fragile truce remains at stake
US Vice President J.D. Vance arrived in Islamabad on Saturday to lead crucial negotiations with Iran aimed at stabilizing a fragile ceasefire and exploring a path to peace in the Middle East.Vance, at the head of the American delegation on behalf of Donald Trump, landed at Noor Khan Air Base near the Pakistani capital, where he was received by Pakistani Army Commander Asim Munir.
He watches
ON CAMERA: Pakistani F-16s accompany 2nd Air Force as Vance lands in Islamabad for nuclear talks with Iran
The US team also includes special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.The Iranian delegation, headed by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, had already arrived in Islamabad before the talks.
Tense background and preconditions from Iran
The negotiations come at a critical juncture, as the Pakistani-brokered ceasefire between the United States and Iran remains holding but is under great pressure. Ghalibaf insisted that the talks would continue only if two main conditions were met: a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of detained Iranian assets.Before leaving Washington, Vance spoke in a cautious tone, warning Tehran against trying to exploit the talks.
“If they try to manipulate us, they will find that the negotiating team is not that receptive,” he said, also expressing optimism that the discussions could be “positive.”
Islamabad is under tight security measures
Security measures in Islamabad were significantly tightened ahead of the high-level participation. Roads were closed and residents were advised to stay home, giving parts of the city the appearance of a curfew.Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the moment as a “make or break” phase, highlighting the difficulty of moving from a temporary truce to a permanent peace agreement.
Ceasefire under pressure amid regional tensions
The talks are unfolding against the backdrop of continuing violence in the region, especially in Lebanon, where clashes between Israel and Hezbollah continue despite the broader ceasefire framework. This disagreement over the scope of the truce has emerged as a major sticking point in the negotiations.The Strait of Hormuz remains another flashpoint, where Iran’s blockade disrupts global energy supplies and increases the urgency of discussions. Oil prices have risen sharply since the conflict began, reflecting the broader economic impact.With both sides sticking to key demands, the Islamabad talks are seen as a critical test of the extent to which diplomatic efforts can prevent renewed escalation in the region.
