Vice President JD Vance is traveling to Pakistan to lead critical diplomatic negotiations with Iranian representatives, working to strengthen a fragile ceasefire and establish groundwork for ending ongoing hostilities permanently. These discussions mark the first high-level diplomatic encounter between the nations since conflict erupted more than a month ago.
The Pakistan-mediated ceasefire remains precarious as negotiations commence Saturday, with continued exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah forces near Lebanon’s southern border, while Iran has established specific prerequisites before engaging in formal talks.
Iranian representatives touched down in Islamabad early Saturday, with their delegation headed by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, who stated on social media that negotiations would proceed only with “an Israeli ceasefire in Lebanon the release of blocked Iranian assets.”
Earlier, President Donald Trump offered encouragement to Vance, saying “We’ll find out what’s going on. They’re militarily defeated.”
Islamabad’s typically crowded streets sat empty Saturday as security personnel blocked roadways in preparation for the diplomatic meetings.
Pakistani officials have established an advanced media facility to accommodate both domestic and international journalists covering the U.S.-Iran discussions, according to Information Minister Attaullah Tarar.
Tarar informed media representatives that the Jinnah Convention Center facility provides high-speed internet access and various complimentary services to assist news coverage. Transportation has been organized to shuttle reporters between the media facility and accommodations at a hotel within the city’s primary commercial district.
Pakistani authorities have implemented visa-on-arrival policies for journalists and official representatives traveling from both the United States and Iran for these discussions, now known as the “Islamabad talks.”
The media facility features multiple workstations with laptops and power outlets for reporters to submit their stories. Large display screens show major national and international news channels. Special zones have been designated for live broadcasts, media briefings and interview sessions.
Pakistan’s capital, normally filled with activity, appeared vacant Saturday as security personnel closed streets before high-ranking Iranian and American officials met to address their nearly six-week conflict. Pakistani leadership advised Islamabad citizens to remain indoors, giving the city an appearance similar to martial law.
The American delegation, led by Vice President Vance, was anticipated to land before midday.
Iranian negotiators, under Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf’s leadership, arrived Friday evening.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the conflict as entering a “difficult phase” as both sides attempt to transition from temporary fighting suspension to a more enduring agreement. He characterized the current moment as “make-or-break.”
