The United States and Iran each separately met with Pakistan's leader before the start of critical negotiations that the world is closely watching, while the direction of the talks remains uncertain and depends on the last-minute positions of both sides.
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance met with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad ahead of important talks with Iran. Meanwhile, Iranian representatives also met with Pakistan's leader earlier.
Reports say Vance joined the discussions alongside Steve Witkoff, Special Envoy, and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former President Donald Trump. Pakistan's side was led by Sharif, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, and Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza. However, the meetings were closed to the media.
Earlier that day, Iran's delegation also met with Sharif, according to official media Tasnim. Reports indicate that talks between Tehran and Washington might take place that afternoon, although Iran had not yet made a final decision on whether to proceed with the negotiations.
A statement from Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office said Sharif praised both parties for showing commitment to constructive dialogue and expressed hope that these discussions would mark an important step toward lasting peace in the region.
The report also noted that if the U.S.-Iran talks do occur, they would likely be a one-day session, with Iran closely assessing the U.S. position, leaving the negotiation's direction dependent on evolving developments throughout the day.
:CNN
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