Pakistan makes history with US-Iran direct talks since 1979

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday met US and Iranian delegations in Islamabad as the Islamabad Talks formally began, with hopes of advancing peace efforts in the Middle East.

The US delegation, led by Vice President JD Vance, included Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The prime minister was joined by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi.

During the meeting, the prime minister welcomed both sides’ willingness to engage, expressing hope that the talks would serve as “a stepping stone towards durable peace” in the region. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating dialogue and supporting efforts for sustainable peace.

Separately, the prime minister met the Iranian delegation, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Senior Pakistani officials, including Field Marshal Asim Munir, also attended the meeting.

Officials said the talks follow a two-week ceasefire announced by US President Donald Trump after weeks of conflict involving US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Despite the pause, tensions remain high, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing hostilities involving Israel and Iran-backed groups in Lebanon.

Ahead of the talks, Ghalibaf said progress would depend on the US fulfilling prior commitments, including easing restrictions on Iranian assets and ensuring a ceasefire in Lebanon. Vance, meanwhile, expressed cautious optimism but warned of a firm response if the process was undermined.

Iranian media reported that negotiations had begun following preliminary progress and a reduction in attacks.

The conflict, which began on February 28, has resulted in more than 2,000 deaths and widespread instability across the region.