US, Iran, Pakistan hold new talks in Islamabad

Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate regional tensions entered a new phase late Saturday as the United States, Iran, and Pakistan convened for another round of trilateral talks in Islamabad. The negotiations resumed shortly before midnight following a dinner break, according to Pakistani government sources.

Shuttle diplomacy gives way to direct engagement

The first two rounds saw the parties initially communicate through indirect channels before transitioning to face-to-face discussions. Written texts were exchanged prior to meal breaks, signaling what Pakistani officials described as cautious but notable progress. A White House official confirmed that in-person negotiations remain “ongoing.”

US and Iranian delegations at highest levels

Vice President JD Vance leads the American team, joined by special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner. Iran’s delegation is headed by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, alongside Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and top security official Ali Bagheri Kani. Senior Pakistani officials are facilitating the dialogue, positioning Islamabad as a key regional mediator.

Technical talks and persistent differences

Iranian state media IRIB reported that expert teams from both sides have been negotiating through specialized committees, describing the current phase as “sensitive.” Sources close to Tehran’s delegation noted “persistent differences” in positions, criticizing what they called a US “maximalist approach” in both public statements and closed sessions. Pakistan is hosting the talks amid a fragile two-week ceasefire brokered earlier this week.