US aircraft lands in Pakistan as high-stakes Iran talks hang in balance

Ceasefire strains cast shadow over talks

Uncertainty continues to cloud the proposed negotiations, with no official confirmation of delegations on either side.

Both Washington and Tehran have accused each other of failing to honour commitments under a fragile ceasefire.

US President Donald Trump has criticised Iran’s handling of the Strait of Hormuz, which was expected to reopen under the agreement.

Iran, in turn, has condemned Israeli strikes in Lebanon, insisting they fall within the ceasefire’s scope.

“The holding of talks depends on the US adhering to its commitments on all fronts, especially in Lebanon,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei.

High-level US delegation expected

US Vice President JD Vance is expected to lead the American delegation, accompanied by special envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner. Iran has yet to confirm its team, with mixed signals emerging from its diplomatic channels.

Complicating Islamabad’s role as mediator, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif sparked controversy after calling Israel a “cancerous state” in a now-deleted post.

Israel reacted sharply, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office terming the remarks “outrageous” and incompatible with neutral mediation.

Tight security in Islamabad

Despite tensions, Pakistan appears to be pressing ahead. The capital has been placed under heavy security, with checkpoints, troop deployment, and restricted movement across key zones.

The Serena Hotel in the Red Zone reportedly asked guests to vacate ahead of the anticipated talks.

Key Issues: Nuclear programme and Hormuz access

At the heart of the negotiations lie Iran’s nuclear programme and the future of the Strait of Hormuz — a critical artery for global oil trade.

Reports suggest Washington has proposed a 15-point framework focused on curbing Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and ensuring free navigation through the strait.

Tehran has countered with a 10-point plan seeking control over the waterway, the imposition of transit tolls, a halt to regional military operations, and the lifting of sanctions.